Oakland City University Graduates 180 Students at 2026 Commencement Ceremony

Oakland City University celebrated the graduation of 180 students on Saturday, May 2, 2026, on its Oakland City, Indiana campus. Representing 44 countries, these graduates have demonstrated remarkable dedication, setting a high standard for academic excellence and meaningful community engagement.

Under the leadership of OCU President Dr. Ron Dempsey, the 131st commencement was attended by family members, guests, and Board of Trustees members – a testament to the graduates’ hard work and dedication.

Out of the students graduating, the degrees and certificates conferred on them included one religious studies degree, 23 Arts and Sciences degrees and certificates, 61 education degrees and certificates, and 95 business degrees and certificates.

Five outstanding students were also honored with the prestigious President’s Award, recognizing not only the highest academic accomplishment in each school but also the significant contributions the students have made to campus life, reflecting the university’s commitment to holistic development. These students were:

Abigail Breanna Vaugh from Lawrenceville, Illinois
- 4.0 G.P.A.
- Education Major
- Elementary Education – Special Education
- Played on the Women’s Volleyball Team

Isabella Catherine Donihue from Huntingburg, Indiana
- 4.0 G.P.A.
- English Major
- Elementary Education – Special Education

Berta Del Hoyo Borrell from Barcelona, Spain
- 4.0 G.P.A.
- Psychology Major
- Played on the Women’s Soccer Team

Macy Ana Knight from Grayville, Illinois
- 4.0 G.P.A.
- English Major – Secondary Education Licensure
- Played on the Women’s Volleyball Team

Samaribr Sing Sidhu, from Mohali, Punjab, India
- 4.0 G.P.A. Double Major
- Business Administration Major
  - Management, Human Resources Management, Accounting
- Operations Management Major
  - Logistics & Product Distribution
- Played on the Men’s Tennis Team
- OCU Resident Assistant