North Country schools celebrate commencement
North Country Community College, Paul Smith’s College, and SUNY ESF Ranger School held commencement ceremonies for their class of 2026, celebrating 262, 160, and 53 graduates respectively, with speeches emphasizing personal growth and global perspectives. The events honored diverse degree programs, including sports management, environmental science, and forest technology, while students from 15 states and five countries were recognized at Paul Smith’s College.
Three institutions in New York’s North Country celebrated their class of 2026 during commencement ceremonies this month. North Country Community College awarded degrees to 262 graduates at its 58th ceremony, featuring remarks from Pete Suttmeier, chair of the college board of trustees, and Emma Byl, a graduating sports and events management student from Germany. Byl spoke about the importance of openness and connection among diverse individuals, while President Joe Keegan encouraged graduates to use their education to enrich others’ lives. Paul Smith’s College held its 79th annual commencement in the Adirondacks, with over 160 graduates receiving degrees ranging from associate to master’s levels. The ceremony included 17 master’s and two graduate certificate recipients alongside 141 bachelor’s and associate degree earners, representing 15 states and five countries. President Daniel Kelting emphasized resilience and adaptability as key skills for graduates’ future success. At SUNY ESF Ranger School in Wanakena, 53 students earned associate degrees in forest technology, environmental conservation, and land surveying technology. The ceremony took place at the Clifton-Fine Central School in Star Lake, marking the completion of specialized programs in natural resource fields. Graduates were recognized for their contributions to environmental and forestry sectors, aligning with the school’s mission of practical, hands-on education. The ceremonies highlighted the institutions’ commitment to academic achievement and personal development, with graduates encouraged to apply their skills to real-world challenges. Speeches underscored themes of unity, adaptability, and global perspectives, reflecting the diverse backgrounds of the student bodies.
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