PBA to Celebrate 700+ Students at Commencement

(Press Release) WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (April 30, 2026) – On Friday, May 8, 750 students will celebrate the completion of their studies at Palm Beach Atlantic University (PBA). 

The University will host three ceremonies to celebrate the remarkable achievements of its Class of 2026. Scheduled for 11 a.m., 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. at the Rubin Arena, Greene Complex for Sports and Recreation at the University’s West Palm Beach campus, the ceremonies will celebrate graduates earning bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degrees. The day’s activities will also feature an open house from noon to 7 p.m. so graduates can celebrate the occasion with fellow students, faculty, families, and friends.  

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​This year’s keynote speaker is PBA alumna Michele Rigby Assad, who served as an undercover officer in the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency. Specializing in counterterrorism, Michele served for 10 years in the Middle East and currently uses her expertise to aid in relief efforts for persecuted Christians. She is the winner of the 2026 PBA Women of Distinction Humanitarian Award. 

Assad is also an accomplished author, and her experiences inform her ability to deal with the most challenging people, including terrorists and insurgents, which are highlighted in her bestselling memoir, “Breaking Cover: My Secret Life in the CIA and What it Taught Me about What’s Worth Fighting For.” Her second book, “Get Off the X: CIA Secrets for Conquering Obstacles and Achieving Your Life’s Mission,” encourages readers to move beyond fear and comfort zones to take decisive action in pursuit of their purpose. 

“PBA continues to build on the dreams and faith of its founders, and we send our graduates forward to build on the foundation they have received here,” said PBA President Dr. Debra A. Schwinn. “We are sending into our community, our nation, and the world, future pharmacists, nurses, teachers, journalists, politicians, and lawyers—they leave equipped to grow in wisdom, lead with conviction, and serve God boldly—not only with a degree, but with a deep sense of purpose.” 

The Class of 2026 includes 10 active-duty members and two ROTC members. Over 500 graduates have earned bachelor’s degrees across various disciplines; over 200 students have earned master’s and doctoral degrees. Among the graduates are the initial cohort of students completing a major in Entrepreneurship and Franchising and the first student to complete PBA’s Bachelor of Science in Engineering.

The University will also recognize Outstanding Graduates from each School (College of the Arts, Marshall E. Rinker, Sr. College of Business, School of Education and Behavioral Studies, School of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Catherine T. MacArthur School, School of Ministry, School of Nursing and the Lloyd L. Gregory School of Pharmacy).

Ceremony details are as follows:

11 a.m. Commencement Ceremony
College of the Arts
School of Liberal Arts and Sciences

2 p.m. Commencement Ceremony
Marshall E. Rinker, Sr. College of Business
School of Ministry

5 p.m. Commencement Ceremony
School of Education and Behavioral Studies
School of Nursing
Lloyd L. Gregory School of Pharmacy