South Georgia State College celebrated its graduates during annual commencement ceremonies May 14, 2026, on the Douglas Campus and May 15, 2026, on the Waycross Campus. Family members and friends gathered to cheer on a portion of the 350 graduates from summer and fall 2025 and spring 2026.
SGSC President Dr. Greg Tanner opened the ceremonies with congratulations to the Class of 2026 and recognized the hard work, long nights, perseverance, and faith that brought graduates to commencement day. He noted that this year is especially meaningful. For 120 years, South Georgia State College has been a place of opportunity and transformation. As our nation approaches 250 years since its founding, he reminded graduates and guests that both this college and our country were built on enduring principles, such as freedom, responsibility, and the belief that every person has purpose.
“Education is more than earning a degree. It is transformation. When one person rises, a family rises. When families rise, communities rise. Today, you are living proof,” Dr. Tanner shared. “As you enter a rapidly changing world, remember that the values that sustain a meaningful life remain steady: integrity, humility, courage, and service. Seek wisdom, not just success. Lead by lifting others. Let your light shine — not for recognition, but to help others find their way.” In his remarks, he stated, “Class of 2026, you are part of a 120-year legacy and heirs to a 250-year promise. You are prepared. You are capable. You are called to lead.”
Dr. Morris Leis, Superintendent of Coffee County Schools, spoke to graduates on the Douglas campus, sharing his personal connection to South Georgia State College and the role the institution has played in his family’s story. He noted that his father, father-in-law, brother, sister, and wife all attended SGSC, and that his father came from Lakeland, Florida, to play football at the college. He also shared that his great-grandfather served in the Georgia General Assembly in 1927 when the act creating South Georgia Junior State College was passed.
Dr. Leis encouraged graduates to recognize the opportunity their degree provides, while also understanding that success requires personal responsibility, hard work, and determination. “A degree from SGSC can open doors,” he told graduates, “But what you do with that opportunity is up to you.”
He challenged the Class of 2026 to continue working hard, doing what is right, and treating others with kindness. His message emphasized the importance of being “uncommonly kind,” especially when facing challenges and adversity.
Dr. Erin Harvey provided the commencement address at the 8:30 am ceremony on the Waycross Campus. Since most graduates at this ceremony were entering the field of education, she shared a practical and heartfelt message about the realities of teaching.
Drawing from experience as an educator and administrator, Dr. Harvey encouraged them as new teachers to approach the profession with realistic expectations, noting that teaching brings both difficult days and deeply rewarding moments. She reminded them that they will experience frustration, sadness, and challenges, but also joy when students master a concept, gain confidence, or experience something meaningful for the first time.
The address centered on three pieces of advice for the graduates: be respectful, remain lifelong learners, and take care of themselves physically and mentally. “Education is constantly evolving and great teachers continue learning from others throughout their careers,” she said. “I strongly encourage you to remember the importance of self-care, asking for help, setting boundaries, and remembering that educators cannot pour into others if they are drained.”
Dr. Damon Barrett, Chief Executive Officer of Memorial Satilla Health, provided the commencement address at the 12:00 noon program on the Waycross Campus. He addressed graduates with a message about adaptability and the importance of continuing to grow after graduation. As the leader of one of the region’s largest employers, Dr. Barrett noted Memorial Satilla Health’s strong partnership with SGSC and shared that several graduates would be joining the organization’s team.
Dr. Barrett reminded graduates that many of them completed their education during a time marked by disruption, change, and uncertainty. From COVID-19 and changes in education and healthcare to the rapid growth of technology and artificial intelligence, he said the Class of 2026 has already developed the resilience needed to succeed in a changing world.
He encouraged graduates to never stop learning, remain humble, invest in relationships, protect their integrity, and make time for the people who matter most. He reminded them that a degree is not the finish line, but a launching point for building something meaningful. “Graduation is not completion,” Dr. Barrett shared. “It is simply proof that you know how to grow.”
Together, the speakers’ messages reflected the values at the heart of a South Georgia State College education: resilience, service, integrity, lifelong learning, community, and care for others.
As graduates crossed the stage and turned their tassels, the ceremonies marked both an ending and a beginning. With degrees in hand, the Class of 2026 now moves forward prepared to serve, lead, and make a difference in their communities and careers.
For more information about South Georgia State College, visit www.sgsc.edu.
