Go forward with courage, go forward with fearlessness, go forward with joy, always remembering you are your best thing
As Isabella Rose Almeder, ’20, G’26, prepared to sing BSU’s Alma Mater from the stage of the Xfinity Center, she couldn’t help but think about the bevy of world-renowned artists who have graced the same stage.
“Oh my God, I’m singing on the same stage as Pitbull,” said Isabella, who is returning to the Xfinity Center in August to attend a concert by the rapper. “I think it’s so cool. I’m excited for my family to see me.”
Isabella is one of approximately 380 students who earned degrees from the College of Graduate Studies on Thursday evening. Accompanied by the cheers of family and friends, graduates proudly crossed the stage, receiving a diploma and a special hood that commemorates their advanced degrees.
“No matter how many sleepless nights or Dunkin’ runs – yes, Dunkin’ runs – you put in the work when no one was watching,” said Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell, the commencement speaker and honorary degree recipient. “You believed in yourself.”
Campbell reflected on the immense tragedy she experienced as a child, including the loss of her mother and father. Yet, guided by her faith and the teachers and community members who believed in her, Campbell went to Princeton and UCLA and became the first Black woman to serve as Massachusetts’ attorney general.
Graduates, she said, are entering a world marked by economic uncertainty, deep political divisions and global instability. Yet, the Class of 2026 is ready to confront these challenges with fortitude, determination and a resolve to serve others.
“Go forward with courage, go forward with fearlessness, go forward with joy, always remembering you are your best thing,” she said.
In a world filled with complex challenges that demand personal sacrifices, graduates can truly leave their mark by making a difference in others’ lives, President Frederick W. Clark Jr., ’83, said, referencing BSU’s motto, “Not to be ministered unto, but to minister.”
“I can’t think of any graduating class I’d rather have leading this charge than the members of this class we celebrate tonight,” Clark said. “After all, you are battle tested, and your journey has made each of you stronger and each of you wiser. You are ready for what comes next.”
Student speaker Noah Downing, who earned a degree in business administration, shared a story about losing his wallet along Rte. 1. Noah had recently talked with Associate Professor Jen Mead, and fortuitously still had her business card in his wallet. A good Samaritan found the wallet and called Dr. Mead, who made the connection to Noah.
Noah saw that twist of fate as a sign to enroll at BSU, and he has taken advantage of the many opportunities the university provides. He became a graduate assistant in Academic Coaching, where he helped students develop learning and organizational skills; played on the basketball team; and started an on-campus affinity program for student-athletes of color.
“Without losing my wallet, I would have never built the relationships I have on this campus or found my purpose,” said Noah, who now works in the Office of Student Success and Equity. “I truly believe everything happens for a reason and when you move with passion and intention, things have a way of aligning.”
Isabella, who also sang the National Anthem, said she is “super prepared” for her future thanks to “wonderful professors” and “incredible staff.” She teaches high school English at Map Academy in Plymouth and has talked about her education with her students.
“They can’t believe their teacher is a master,” she said. “I tell them, ‘This is going to be you one day. You’re going to have that success and feeling of accomplishment and pride in yourself.’ It’s amazing.”