05/01/26
Gadsden State to host Spring 2026 Commencement Ceremony
Centre, Ala. – Gadsden State Community College will host its Spring Commencement Ceremony at 6 p.m. May 14 in the Richard Lindsey Arena at Gadsden State Cherokee. The event will recognize students who completed program requirements following the spring semester.
Featured commencement speakers are Gadsden State students Felicia Hunter, Rosita Zendejas, and Kendra Perego.
Felicia Hunter, a pre-Law student from Fort Payne, Alabama, has distinguished herself at Gadsden State Community College through both academic achievement and active campus involvement. She has served in the Student Government Association, performed with the A Cappella Choir, and is a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.
Following graduation, Hunter will transfer to the University of Alabama to pursue a degree in Political Science. She aspires to become an attorney-advisor, with a focus on constitutional and national security law.
Rosita Zendejas, a Nursing student from Gadsden, Alabama, has demonstrated strong leadership both inside and outside the classroom during her time at Gadsden State Community College. She is a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and has served as vice president of both her nursing cohort and the Student Nurses Association.
Following graduation, Zendejas will begin her career in an emergency room while continuing her education. She plans to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, followed by a Master of Science in Nursing, and ultimately a Doctor of Nursing Practice. She is committed to a career centered on delivering compassionate, patient-focused care to her community.
Kendra Perego, a Precision Machining student from Valley Head, Alabama, has dedicated her time at Gadsden State Community College to developing the technical expertise essential to the machining field. Through hands-on training and focused coursework, she has built a strong foundation in modern manufacturing processes.
Following graduation, Perego will begin her career as a machinist with GH Metal Solutions, where she plans to continue advancing her skills and growing within the precision machining industry.
Alan Smith, president of Gadsden State Community College, will preside over the ceremony. He will award credentials to the candidates presented by Andy Robertson, dean of Workforce Development, Dr. Derrick Griffey, dean of Academic Programs and Services, and Dr. Joey Battles, dean of Health Sciences. Mr. Phillip Snyder, a biology instructor on the East Broad Campus, will serve as the Commencement Grand Marshal.
