Goodwin University

06/16/2026

We're really loving the beautiful weather lately. We hope everyone who is taking a summer semester class is starting strong, and everyone who graduated is enjoying the well-deserved rest!

06/12/2026

🎓 Step 4: The moment they worked for.

After the anticipation, the procession, and the words of encouragement came the moment every graduate had been waiting for.

One by one, members of the Class of 2026 crossed the stage and officially joined the ranks of Goodwin University alumni.

This year, more than 850 graduates were awarded degrees and certificates across a wide range of programs, from Master of Public Health, ABSN, RN, Welding, Funeral Service, and Dental Hygiene to many others that prepare graduates to make an immediate impact in their communities and professions. Commencement 2026 also marked an important milestone for Goodwin University as we celebrated the first-ever graduates of our Associate in Science in Manufacturing Engineering Technology program and our LPN Certificate program.

Every handshake represented years of dedication. Every name called represented a unique journey. Every graduate who crossed the stage carried with them a story of perseverance, growth, and achievement.

Congratulations once again to the Class of 2026. Your next chapter starts now.

To see all the photos taken from the event, visit our accessible Flickr page here: https://www.flickr.com/photos/goodwincollege/albums/72177720334122888

💚🎓💙

06/11/2026

What do Goodwin University's 2026 Commencement and the 12th Annual Clambake & Auction have in common? Besides taking place on our beautiful waterfront campus, they both celebrate something bigger than a single day: investing in the futures of our students.

Tomorrow evening, our waterfront tent will transform from a graduation celebration space into the setting for one of Goodwin University's most impactful traditions. Join us for an unforgettable evening filled with incredible food, exciting auction and raffle opportunities, and a community united by a shared commitment to student success.

From fresh clambake favorites and local desserts to waterfront views, silent auction experiences, and special guests (including Bay, Connecticut's Official Water Safety Dog!), there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Most importantly, every ticket, bid, and raffle purchase helps support scholarships and educational opportunities for students working hard to build brighter futures.

📍 Goodwin University
📅 Friday, June 12, 2026
⏰ 5:30–9:00 p.m.

There's still time to join us. We can't wait to welcome our community for another memorable evening on the river.

Click here to make a last-minute reservation! https://www.goodwin.edu/foundation/clambake
Click here to view the auction webpage! https://e.givesmart.com/events/NIN/

06/10/2026

🎓 Step 3: The words that guide us forward.

After the procession came a chance to pause, reflect, and listen.

Throughout Commencement 2026, graduates heard from leaders, changemakers, and a fellow student who shared lessons on purpose, perseverance, and community.

Student Speaker Shatoya Simmons, AS Human Services, Certificate in Violence Intervention and Advocacy, reminded the Class of 2026 to ask themselves, “What’s your why?” and encouraged graduates not to let outside voices or pressures distract them from the goals they are working to achieve. Her story served as a powerful reminder that every journey is unique, and sometimes the path we take is exactly the one we're meant to follow.

Honorary Doctoral Degree recipients Roy Kojo Jawara (Jay) Williams, Jeffrey and Nancy Hoffman, and Keynote Speaker Dr. Malik Yoba reflected on the strength of the Goodwin University community and the ways our mission comes to life through action. Their messages highlighted the resilience, determination, and purpose that define our students and graduates.

Before degrees were awarded and tassels were turned, there was an opportunity to listen, learn, and carry these lessons into the future.

✨ Follow along as we continue reliving Commencement 2026, one step at a time.

06/08/2026

🎓 Step 2: The moment it started to feel real.

Twenty-seven rings of the Goodwin Bell, done by the valedictorian, Lisa M. Neveu, Bachelor of Science in Nursing, echoed across campus, marking 27 years since the University's founding and signaling the beginning of Commencement 2026.

As graduates listened, excitement turned into anticipation. The conversations quieted. The reality of the day began to sink in.

Then the procession began.

One by one, the Class of 2026 made their way beneath the tent, surrounded by classmates, faculty, family, and friends, all ready to celebrate a milestone year in the making.

✨ More Commencement 2026 moments coming soon.

06/05/2026

🎓 Step 1: The moments before it all begins.

The check-in. Adjusting the regalia. Finding your seat. Taking one more photo with classmates who became friends, mentors, and support systems along the way.

Before the degrees were awarded and before the walk across the stage, there was this moment, one mixed with excitement, nerves, pride, and reflection. For some, it marked the last time they would sit together as classmates before becoming alumni of Goodwin University. For many graduates, it was the first time someone in their family got to say "I'm graduating from college today."

Every journey to Commencement is different, but these moments of anticipation are something the Class of 2026 shared together.

✨ Stay tuned as we continue looking back at Commencement 2026, one step at a time.

06/03/2026

Tomorrow, we are proud to celebrate the 2026 Graduation Ceremony for Goodwin University, honoring the incredible achievements of over 800 students. 🎓💙💚

This milestone represents years of hard work, perseverance, and dedication — and we’re excited to come together as a community to recognize the Class of 2026 as they take this next step forward.

Unable to make it in-person? Join us via livestream to be part of this special moment and celebrate alongside our graduates, their families, friends, faculty, and staff.

For all important information regarding directions, parking, programs, event timing, and access to the livestream, please visit: goodwin.edu/commencement

06/03/2026

Did you catch Goodwin University on Hello Connecticut?

Our own Jade Stoltz, Director of Development, and Heidi Carlson, Senior Foundation Officer, recently sat down with Renée DiNino to discuss the upcoming 12th Annual Summer Clambake & Auction, taking place on June 12 along the Connecticut River. The conversation highlights how the event supports student scholarships, why access to education matters, and how it's never too late to pursue your educational goals.

Join us for an evening of great food, live entertainment, auctions, and community, all while helping students achieve their dreams through higher education.

Watch the segment and learn more about this year's event: https://www.wfsb.com/video/2026/06/02/hello-connecticut-goodwin-university-12th-annual-summer-clambake-auction/

📅 June 12, 2026
📍 Goodwin University, East Hartford

Every ticket, sponsorship, and donation helps expand educational opportunities for students who depend on financial aid and scholarships.

And even better, the Silent Auction preview is now live! Check out our amazing variety of items here: https://e.givesmart.com/events/NIN/

Goodwin University 12th Annual Summer Clambake & Auction takes place on Friday, June 12, 2026.

06/02/2026

Throwing it back to the Graduation of 2016! So much has changed since then, including becoming a University; but one thing remains certain. The excitement felt during graduation is palpable and being able to celebrate the accomplishments of all of our students is a truly exciting experience! Two more sleeps Class of 2026! 🎓 goodwin.edu/commencement

06/01/2026

In just a few days, the excitement from our Regalia Pick-Up day will be felt again! To stay up-to-date with all updates regarding commencement, visit goodwin.edu/commencement

See you all June 4th! 💙🎓