The 61 members of the Class of 2026 received their diplomas during a memorable commencement ceremony held at Alice Drive Baptist Church. As the 57th class to graduate from Wilson Hall, they joined the proud tradition of more than 3,200 alumni. In a beloved tradition, the soon-to-be graduates lined the hallway to applaud the faculty as they entered the sanctuary. Accompanied by the instrumental ensemble playing Elgar’s Pomp and Circumstance, the junior marshals led the Class of ‘26 onto the stage.
The ceremony featured an invocation by Class President Bowen Zitzke, speeches by Salutatorian Austin McLaurin and Valedictorians Muskaan Judge and Mary Ellen Thorne, and the presentation of the 55th John S. Wilson Award to Banks Smith by Mrs. Helen Wilson Taylor ‘76. Dr. Jay Erter ‘95, a hematologist/oncologist, delivered the keynote address, and diplomas were presented by Board Chair Mrs. Lucy Grey McIver.
Mr. Brent Kaneft ‘00, Head of School, offered the final confirmation of the graduates before they moved their tassels from right to left, officially becoming alumni. The ceremony concluded with the Class of ‘26 singing the Alma Mater one final time, followed by the cherished tradition of faculty forming a tunnel of applause as the graduates exited. Outside the church, the class celebrated together with a joyful cap toss marking the end of their Wilson Hall journey.