Washington County Community College Celebrates the Class of 2026 at Commencement Ceremony

CALAIS, ME — Washington County Community College celebrated the accomplishments of the Class of 2026 during its annual commencement ceremony held Friday, May 15, 2026, at Calais Middle/High School. Family members, friends, faculty, staff, alumni, and community leaders gathered to honor graduates completing programs that prepare them for careers in Maine’s workforce and continued educational success.

The ceremony opened with a cultural performance by the Huntley Brook Drummers, who shared traditional Passamaquoddy songs.  Faculty member Mindy Reynolds performed both the Canadian and American national anthems, while Ernie Smith accompanied the processional with bagpipe music.

WCCC President Susan Mingo welcomed attendees and reflected on the transformational impact of education and the important role graduates will play in strengthening Maine’s communities and workforce. “We are graduating early childhood educators and teachers, electricians, automotive and mechanical technicians, entrepreneurs, business managers, HVAC techs, law enforcement officers, health care professionals, outdoor recreational leaders, welders, equipment operators, and so many more in-demand professions,” said Mingo during her remarks. “These are the jobs that are the economic engine of our region and our state.”

Mingo also thanked faculty, staff, and student supporters for their commitment to helping students succeed and highlighted the resilience and determination demonstrated by the graduating class throughout their educational journeys.

Among the honored guests was Joyce Maker, representing the Maine Community College System Board of Trustees. Maker, a former WCCC employee, state legislator, and longtime advocate for community colleges, delivered remarks encouraging graduates to remain engaged in their communities through leadership and service. “The degree or certificate you received today is more than a piece of paper,” said Maker. “It is proof that you committed to something, worked through challenges, and kept going even when it wasn’t easy.”

The ceremony also featured remarks from student-selected distinguished faculty speaker Lisa Dereszewski.  WCCC Student Senate President Wendy Eckert introduced Dereszewski and recognized her for proven leadership, academic achievement, and service to the college community. Dereszewski shared humorous and heartfelt stories from both her professional background in disaster management and her experiences teaching at WCCC, encouraging graduates to embrace resilience and adaptability. “You showed up,” Dereszewski told graduates. “And that, my friends, is resilience.”

The college also recognized Kendall Wood-Coffin as the 2026 Student of the Year. Wood-Coffin, a Business Management student from Machias Memorial High School, was honored for her academic performance, leadership as Student Senate Treasurer, campus involvement, and dedication to balancing academics with work responsibilities. During her remarks, Wood-Coffin reflected on the personal growth students experienced during their time at WCCC and the importance of the connections formed along the way. “This isn’t the end, but this is the beginning of what we call life,” Wood-Coffin told her classmates.

The commencement keynote address was delivered by Joseph Moses, President and CEO of Downeast Credit Union and a proud WCCC alumnus. Moses shared his personal journey from uncertain beginnings to becoming a business leader and encouraged graduates to continue investing in themselves through lifelong learning, integrity, and service. “You didn’t just finish, you won,” Moses said. “Now it’s time to decide how far you’ll go.” Moses encouraged graduates to approach every opportunity with commitment, integrity, and pride in their work. Reflecting on his early career, Moses shared how his success began long before he became a CEO. Moses challenged graduates to continue investing in themselves long after graduation, reminding students that learning and personal growth do not stop with a diploma. “Your education does not end today. It begins in a new way,” Moses told graduates. “The best investment you will ever make is in yourself.” He also emphasized the importance of character, work ethic, and treating others with respect, telling graduates that “skills will get your foot in the door. Character will move you forward.”

The ceremony concluded with the awarding of degrees and certificates to 171 members of the Class of 2026, celebrating the achievements of graduates both attending in person and participating virtually.  A full recording of the ceremony is available for viewing and free digital downloads of high quality graduate photos at the following website: https://wccc.me.edu/student-life/commencement/