MADISON, Wis. — Growth, resilience and second chances were celebrated as graduates crossed the stage at Madison College’s Spring 2026 Commencement Friday night, marking achievements from teenagers earning college credit to adults completing long-awaited credentials.

The commencement ceremony was held on May 15 at the Alliant Energy Center’s Veterans Memorial Coliseum.

Approximately 2,444 students received associate degrees, technical diplomas, certificates, or completed apprenticeships this spring. 

Among them was 16-year-old student speaker Camila Alcantara Perez, who began her college journey in high school through the Early College STEM Academy.

She earned an associate’s degree and 70 college credits, all debt-free, just weeks before receiving her high school diploma from Verona Area High School.

Alcantara Perez said she initially felt out of place as a 15-year-old in college classrooms filled with adult learners.

“I kept waiting for someone to sniff me out and say, ‘You don’t belong here,’” she said. “But the longer I stayed, the more questions I asked, the more I listened, I realized no one really has it all figured out, because everyone is growing into who they want to be.”

She pointed to the range of experiences represented in the graduating class, including student-parents, adult learners returning after decades, and students balancing full-time work with coursework.

“Growth doesn’t come with an age limit,” she said. “We’re all still becoming.”

Madison College President Dr. Jennifer Berne praised graduates for persistence and impact: “You are here not by accident, but because you kept showing up, kept trying, and did the thing you thought you could not do.”

The largest number of graduates came from nursing and emergency medical technician (EMT) programs, followed by the University Transfer program.

Berne honored graduates as future leaders, innovators, builders and caregivers, noting their transition into the college’s alumni community.

“You have changed Madison College with your energy and ideas, your struggles and achievements,” Berne said. “We will protect your legacy and continue to build on it with those who follow.”

Watch the  2026 Madison College Commencement Ceremony.