CLASS OF 2026: Rowan-Cabarrus awards more than 2,000 degrees, diplomas and certificates
Rowan-Cabarrus Community College celebrated the achievements of the Class of 2026 during its commencement ceremony on Friday, May 15, at the Cabarrus Arena & Events Center in Concord.
The Class of 2026 included 1,527 students eligible to participate in commencement, earning a total of 2,095 associate degrees, diplomas and certificates. Additionally, nearly 100 High School Equivalency and Adult High School students completed their programs. More than 700 graduates participated in the ceremony, ranging in age from 18 to 62.
This event demonstrates the college's impact as a leader in workforce education, reflecting its position as the sixth largest community college in North Carolina. It also highlights the college's ongoing commitment to preparing students with the skills needed to meet regional industry demands while also creating pathways for students to transfer and continue their education at four-year institutions.
The ceremony welcomed more than 4,200 guests, including family members, friends and educators. Rowan-Cabarrus faculty, staff, board of trustees members and superintendents from local school systems were also in attendance. The college also provided a livestream of the event, extending its reach across the community.
The ceremony celebrated students who completed programs across a range of disciplines, including Associate in Arts, Associate in Engineering, Associate in Science, Associate in Fine Arts, Associate in Applied Science and Associate in General Education. Students earning diplomas and certificates, as well as those completing high school equivalency or adult high school requirements, were also recognized.
Rowan-Cabarrus President Dr. Carol S. Spalding shared remarks with graduates, recognizing their perseverance and accomplishments. "These students are entering a workforce that is evolving every day, equipped not only to meet those changes but to lead them. The knowledge and skills they have gained at Rowan-Cabarrus are in demand across our region, positioning them to make an immediate and meaningful impact in their careers and communities."
Barbi Jones, president and CEO of the Cabarrus Chamber of Commerce, served as the commencement speaker. She offered congratulations to the Class of 2026 and encouraged graduates to remain focused on their future while contributing to the region's continued growth and success.
"Everyone's journey is going to look different depending on the hand you are dealt, and your hard work that is recognized today is your opportunity. There's a saying, ‘Opportunity rarely announces itself. What matters is whether you've done the work to be ready when it arrives.'"
Kylie Baucom served as the student speaker for the ceremony. A mother of two, she returned to Rowan-Cabarrus determined to complete her education and quickly distinguished herself through academic excellence and campus involvement. Baucom graduated from Rowan-Cabarrus in 2025 and is continuing her educational journey at the college while completing an additional degree in 2026. She is a member of first-generation student support system TRIO, the National Society of Leadership and Success, Phi Theta Kappa, and Future Business Leaders of America Collegiate, and received the 2025 Outstanding eLearning Student Award from the Instructional Technology Council.
In her remarks, Baucom reflected on her nontraditional path and the perseverance that brought her back to college. "Sometimes all it takes is one person, one moment or one sentence to change the way you see yourself," she said. "For me, it was a simple reminder: yes, you can."
Statewide awards
In addition to celebrating graduates, the college recognized nominees for three prestigious statewide community college awards:
• Michael Shoe, Academic Excellence Award Winner
• Bradley Harkey, Dallas Herring Achievement Award nominee
• Aja Walker, Governor Robert W. Scott Student Leadership Award nominee
"The achievements of the Class of 2026 reflect what is possible through perseverance and a commitment to personal growth," said Dr. Carol S. Spalding. "Each graduate has followed a unique path to reach this moment, and the education they have earned is something that can never be taken away from them."
Those who missed the ceremony can access a recording on the college's Facebook page and YouTube channel. For more information about Rowan-Cabarrus Community College, visit www.rccc.edu or call 704-216-7222.
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This story was originally published May 18, 2026 at 5:41 AM.