New College Institute (soon to be West Piedmont Higher Education Center) proudly congratulates the Longwood University @ NCI Class of 2026 on reaching this significant milestone. Through dedication, perseverance and a passion for serving future generations, these graduates have achieved an accomplishment that will make a lasting impact in classrooms and communities across the region.
Longwood University’s commencement ceremony was held on May 16, 2026, where the 14 Longwood at NCI graduates joined fellow Longwood students in celebrating this important achievement. Among the graduates, 12 earned their Bachelor of Science in elementary education and teaching, including seven recipients of the Grow Your Own grant program, while two earned their Bachelor of Science in early childhood education through Longwood University @ NCI.
Bachelor of Science in elementary education and teaching
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- Karli Nicole Barker
- Alyson Burch
- Lydia G. Carter*
- Odette Monserrath Chavez
- Mary Craig*
- Michael Caleb Gilbert
- Kaysee Paige Marshall*
- Annie Payton Merriman*
- Kendall Lane Mitchem*
- Angela Norman*
- Lindsey Nicole Peay
- Amber Wimbish*
*Grow Your Own grant recipients
Bachelor of Science in early childhood education
- Amiyah Hood
- Emma Nester
To honor the graduates, NCI hosted a completion celebration on May 7, 2026. Joe Sumner, executive director for NCI, welcomed attendees, and Longwood provost and vice president for academic affairs, Dr. Larissa Smith, delivered the keynote address, “A Time for Celebration.” Mary Craig served as the student speaker, reflecting on the graduates’ experiences and accomplishments.
Graduates received commemorative cords and gifts from representatives of Longwood University’s College of Education, Health & Human Services, including Dr. Angela McDonald, dean of the College of Education, Health & Human Services; Dr. Audrey Church, department chair for education and counseling; Dr. Pamela Randall, coordinator of education programs at NCI; and Dr. Sara Miller, professor of education.
Additional congratulatory remarks were shared by Dr. Greg Hodges, president of Patrick & Henry Community College, while Melody Margave served as the alumna speaker. Dr. Pamela Randall concluded the celebration.
NCI is honored to support students in achieving their educational and professional goals through accessible pathways to higher education. The organization celebrates the accomplishments of the Class of 2026 and looks forward to the meaningful difference these graduates will make in schools and communities for years to come. Congratulations, Class of 2026!
