Jessica Morgan:
A spirit of pride, accomplishment, and optimism filled the auditorium as Washington University of Science and Technology (WUST) celebrated the graduation of its Class of 2026, honoring students whose academic journeys culminated in a milestone years in the making.
Held on June 13, 2026, at the Woodson High School Auditorium in Fairfax, Virginia, the commencement ceremony brought together graduates, families, faculty members, and community leaders for a day that celebrated achievement while looking toward the future. A total of 290 graduates crossed the stage, including 183 students from the School of Information Technology (SIT) and 107 students from the School of Business Administration.
From the moment graduates arrived in their black academic gowns and gold-tasseled caps, the atmosphere reflected both excitement and reflection. Students gathered for photographs, embraced family members, and shared memories with classmates before the formal ceremony began.
In his commencement address, WUST Chancellor and Chairman Abubokor Hanip encouraged graduates to embrace change and remain committed to continuous growth. “The future will not belong to those who fear change. The future will belong to those who learn, adapt, and grow,” he told the graduating class. He also urged alumni to remain connected to the university and continue pursuing innovation, learning, and entrepreneurship throughout their lives.
The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Khalid H. Arar, Professor of Educational Leadership at Texas State University, who spoke on resilience, purpose, and the importance of maintaining humanity in a rapidly evolving technological world. While acknowledging the growing influence of artificial intelligence, he reminded graduates that qualities such as empathy, integrity, critical thinking, and compassion remain uniquely human. “The best education teaches both minds and hearts,” he said.
Additional remarks came from Farhana Hanip, Chief Financial Officer of WUST, Virginia State Senator Saddam Aslan Selim, and entrepreneur Rafik Hawladar, all of whom emphasized perseverance, leadership, and the value of human connection in an increasingly technology-driven society.
Student representatives also shared their experiences and aspirations. Among them were Rithin Sain Manapati, Bilgen Ataley, Tania Rahni, and Maha Sajid, whose reflections highlighted the challenges overcome and opportunities ahead.
The ceremony concluded with one of academia’s most cherished traditions as graduates moved their tassels and officially became alumni. As cheers filled the auditorium and caps soared into the air, the WUST Class of 2026 celebrated not only the completion of a degree, but the beginning of a new chapter defined by ambition, purpose, and hope for the future.
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