UVA Class of 2026 Celebrates Achievements, Honors Beloved Professor

The University of Virginia’s Class of 2026 celebrated a memorable Valediction event, marked by heartfelt speeches, a significant class gift, and the continuation of a family military tradition. With a focus on community service and leadership, the ceremony honored the achievements and contributions of students and faculty alike.

Honoring Leadership and Service

Ryan, the University’s ninth president, addressed the attendees, commending the class for their commitment to improving the university through community involvement and advocacy. He expressed gratitude, saying, “You have my deepest thanks. Thank you for doing the right thing, over and again. Keep doing just that. Always.”

Legacy of Kindness

The event also included the posthumous presentation of the Gordon F. Rainey Jr. Award for Vigilance to the Student Experience to Carrie M. Heilman, a beloved professor from the McIntire School of Commerce, who passed away from cancer in February at age 54. Her son, Matthew, a student in the Class of 2026, accepted the award on her behalf, highlighting her roles as a friend, colleague, professor, wife, and mother. He quoted Henri-Frédéric Amiel to encapsulate her spirit: “Life is short, and we have never too much time for gladdening the hearts of those who are traveling the dark journey with us. Oh, be swift to love, make haste to be kind.”

Generous Class Gift

A significant gesture from the Class of 2026 was the presentation of a $58,714 check to President Scott Beardsley, a longstanding university tradition. Kailyn Dickerson, co-chair of the Class Giving Committee, announced that over half of the class participated, with 2,372 students contributing to 472 different allocations. Beardsley extended his gratitude to the class and congratulated the award winners.

Family Tradition in Service

In a poignant moment earlier that day, Robert L. de Marcellus was commissioned into the U.S. Army, continuing a family legacy. With his father and grandfather, both retired Colonels, in attendance, Robert joined his ROTC classmates from UVA in a commissioning ceremony. His grandfather, a Korean War veteran, administered the oath of office, inspiring Robert to follow in their footsteps. “He’s a great example and an outstanding person, both in the Army and out,” Robert said of his grandfather.

Upcoming Ceremonies

The festivities at UVA will continue with Finals Weekend. On Saturday, students from the College and Graduate School of Arts & Sciences, the Frank Batten School of Leadership and Public Policy, and the School of Education and Human Development will walk the Lawn. Sunday will see graduates from the schools of Architecture, Continuing and Professional Studies, Data Science, Engineering and Applied Science, Law, Medicine, Nursing, the Darden School of Business, and the McIntire School of Commerce in their procession.