WashU CAPS Celebrates the Class of 2026

Held in Graham Chapel as part of Washington University’s One Hundred Sixty-Fifth Commencement ceremonies, the event brought together graduates, faculty, staff, family members and supporters to recognize academic achievement, leadership and community impact.

In her remarks, Cannon reflected on returning to school more than 20 years after beginning her college journey and spoke about the support systems that helped make graduation possible.

“Going back to school became less of an option and more of a dream,” Cannon said. “What I thought was impossible became possible, and WashU’s School of Continuing and Professional Studies does that for working people everywhere.”

Julie Martin received the Undergraduate Dean’s Award for Academic Excellence and University Service, an award presented annually to a student with an exceptional academic record who demonstrates leadership and applies the values of CAPS both inside and outside the classroom. Reflecting on the recognition, Martin described the moment as emotional and transformative.

“I’m a whole different person today than I was when I started at CAPS,” Martin said. “And today I’m the person that I love being.”

Lisa Resnick received the Graduate Dean’s Award for Academic Excellence and University Service, recognizing exceptional graduate scholarship, leadership and engagement within the CAPS community. Resnick spoke about discovering a love for lifelong learning later in life through her graduate experience.

“At 18, 19, I never thought I would have a master’s degree,” Resnick said. “Now I’ve realized that I want to continue to grow and learn throughout the rest of my life.”

Michelle Jenkerson received the Dean’s Faculty Award for Teaching and Service, which honors a CAPS instructor whose commitment to teaching and student support furthers the vision and mission of the school. Jenkerson emphasized the importance of clinical research education and its broader impact on health and science.

“I believe in clinical research,” Jenkerson said. “I believe that it advances health and science. It advances us as humans to stay healthy.”

Savannah Sowell received the In St. Louis, For St. Louis Award, recognizing leaders whose contributions positively impact the St. Louis region by expanding opportunity, fostering inclusion and supporting social and economic mobility. Sowell reflected on the collaborative work of the Prison Education Project and the role education plays in expanding access and opportunity across communities.

“When I look at the students graduating from the Prison Education Project in WashU today, I just see a group of people who have worked incredibly hard as adults to find a path back to higher education,” Sowell said.

Dr. Lindsay Meador received the Dean’s Award for Staff Excellence, recognizing a staff member who has made significant contributions to student success, morale, efficiency and the overall CAPS experience. Meador credited the collaborative culture at CAPS and the shared commitment to supporting learners.

“We all have a common goal to ensure that our learners have the best experience possible,” Meador said.

Throughout the afternoon, the ceremony reflected the supportive and community-centered environment that defines WashU CAPS. Graduates crossed the stage surrounded by classmates, faculty, navigators, family members and friends who helped shape their journeys.

As the Class of 2026 concluded this chapter of their academic experience, Cannon’s closing remarks captured the spirit of the day.

“You should be proud of yourself, and everyone watching should be proud of you, too,” Cannon told graduates. “It takes a lot to choose to go back to school and further your education while working full-time jobs, raising families and performing other duties, but you did it.”