Class of 2026 graduates receive their diplomas May 6. [Photos by Palm Beach State College]

More than 3,000 Palm Beach State College students graduated May 6 at the Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts during four ceremonies held throughout the day.

The graduating class included 89 veterans and a record 144 dual enrollment students. Graduates earned Associate in Arts, Associate in Science, Bachelor of Applied Science and Bachelor of Science degrees, along with workforce certificates in fields including engineering, healthcare, business and public service.

In a rare family achievement, three Venezuelan brothers—Nelson, Harold and Christian Prieto Romero—graduated together during the morning ceremony. The siblings arrived in the United States just two years ago and transformed a challenging transition into shared success by supporting one another while pursuing different academic paths. 

"Earning a credential at Palm Beach State College is not just a personal achievement

—it's a powerful step toward greater opportunity and a brighter future," said PBSC President Ava L. Parker, J.D. “Many of you have traveled a unique path to reach this day, sometimes juggling work, family, and life’s unexpected detours. You persevered, and today, you stand here ready to take the next leap forward.” 

Veterans Skye Escobar and Steeve Dante are launching careers in healthcare and construction management after balancing military service, family responsibilities and academics.

Palm Beach County Mayor Sara Baxter, a PBSC alumna, delivered the keynote address at the 9 a.m. ceremony, drawing on her own experience as a graduate of the College. "Palm Beach State taught me the importance of community," Baxter told graduates. "This College reflects the very best of Palm Beach County—diverse, driven, and full of potential." 

Florida State Representative Jervonte "Tae" Edmonds also addressed graduates as a keynote speaker, joining fellow state legislators Debra Tendrich and Anne Gerwig.

Ceremonies included recognitions for National Nurses Day, veteran graduates, the nation's upcoming 250th anniversary, dual enrollment achievement and alumni success.