Manor College Celebrates 2026 Commencement Ceremony
More than 100 graduates received degrees during the annual commencement ceremony.
Manor College celebrated its 2026 Commencement Ceremony on Thursday, May 14 in an outdoor ceremony on campus.
The day was a chance to celebrate more than 100 Associate’s and Bachelor’s Degree graduates in the Class of 2026.
“You are graduating not only in college, but in life,” Jonathan Peri, Manor College President, said. “As you embark upon new endeavors, use your newly achieved talents and skills to serve society professionally and compassionately.”
Mirit Falkowski, who graduated with her Associate’s Degree in Dental Hygiene, served as the student speaker for the Associate’s Degree earning graduates. In her speech, she referenced her favorite book, East of Eden by John Steinbeck. The character, Lee, talks about the understanding that there are choices to overcome, unknowable challenges to face and adversity, but you have the ability to choose who you want to be.
Falkowski stated her own take on Lee’s explanation, saying “conventional paths are overrated – unless you’re an anxious driver, take new roads.”
“We all chose resilience,” Falkowski said. “Take a moment today to really reflect on this incredible achievement and be grateful that you won, you made it here, and you are right where you are supposed to be.”
The Commencement Orators were Mark and Ann Baiada, executives of BAYADA Home Health Care. Ann Baiada spoke about the power of one – how one person can really change their world.
“Believe me… you will come across some negative people and have bad days,” Ann Baiada said, “but try to remember the power of one – that the goodness and kindness that you show others can make such a difference in your daily life.”
Mark Baiada followed with 10 rules for life to live by, among them “dream big, open your heart and grow up, don’t grow old.”
“Rules aside, I see before me nice, hardworking people,” Mark Baiada said. “I see parents who knew better and wanted better for their children. I see supportive and loyal families who’ve loved the kids in the class of 2026, even at times when they weren’t so nice. I see friendships with a future. I see vitality that is too powerful to fade in the face of age. And I see educated men and women improving western civilization.”
Following their speech, Mark and Ann Baiada were awarded Honorary Doctorates of Humane Letters for humanitarian and philanthropic contributions to society.
Wandell Scott served as the student speaker representing Bachelor’s Degree earning students. She had been a working mother since 1993, earning her high school diploma at the age of 48. Watching four of her six children walk across the graduation state, she realized it was time to go get her education.
When the days of balancing and education became tough, Scott looked to Manor’s mission and values for support.
“Manor showed me what respect and compassion really look like, not just in the classroom, but in how people treat you,” Scott said. “The support from professors, the encouragement from staff and the connections with other students made me feel like I truly belonged here, and that’s not something I will ever forget.”
Watch the Ceremony:
The Commencement Orator’s Address
John Dempster ’99 and the Alumni Address
More from the Day:
‘Who are You Wearing?’ – See the Faculty’s Regalia
Manor College Graduates See Their First Photos on Campus
Meet the Class of 2026
More on Commencement 2026
Meet the Commencement Speakers: Mark & Ann Baiada
Meet the Student Speakers: Wandell Scott and Mirit Falkowski