Northeastern State University to celebrate Spring 2026 Commencement ceremonies

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – Northeastern State University (NSU) will celebrate 1,036 graduating students during its Spring 2026 Commencement ceremonies on May 8, 9 and 11.

NSU President Rodney Hanley expressed his excitement for this year’s ceremonies.

“Commencement is a powerful celebration of our students’ hard work and determination,” Hanley said. “As they take their next step, we are confident they are prepared to make a meaningful impact in their communities, their professions and the world around them. We are proud of all they have accomplished and look forward to all they will achieve.”

On May 8, the NSU Oklahoma College of Optometry ceremony will take place at the Tahlequah Center for the Performing Arts at 4 p.m. Later that day, at 6:30 p.m., the College of Liberal Arts will recognize graduates at the NSU Event Center.

Ceremonies will continue May 9 at the NSU Event Center in Tahlequah. The College of Education and the College of Business & Technology will begin commencement at 9:30 a.m., followed by the Gregg Wadley College of Science & Health Professions at 1:30 p.m.

On May 11, the NSU-Broken Arrow campus and all other colleges will be recognized at 6:30 p.m. at the Tulsa ORU Mabee Center.

Spring 2026 commencement speakers include Rebecca Gore, NSU Honored Alumna; Chuck Hoskin Jr., Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation; and David Hill, Principal Chief of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. NSU is honored to welcome these distinguished individuals as speakers to celebrate this important milestone for graduating students.

Dr. Cari Keller, associate vice president of Academic Affairs, reflected on the pride and accomplishments she feels for the students.

“Commencement fills me with pride, knowing the sacrifice and resilience each graduate has invested to reach this moment,” Keller said. “I hope they leave NSU confident in themselves, ready to face challenges and aware of the difference they can make. May they carry the lessons, relationships and curiosity that shaped them, and know they belong to a community that believes in them.”

Guests are welcome to attend all ceremonies. For those unable to attend in person, NSU will livestream each ceremony.

For more information about NSU’s Spring 2026 Commencement ceremonies, visit nsuok.edu/commencement.

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