SAN MARCOS (May 22, 2026) – Earlier this evening, Palomar College held its commencement ceremony in its new football stadium, to honor graduates receiving degrees and certificates that exemplify the determination and perseverance of their educational journey.
A total of 2,832 graduates were awarded 4,735 degrees and certificates, with many students receiving multiple awards.
Interim Superintendent/President, Dr. Tina Recalde presided over the ceremony as more than 750 students walked across the stage. During her remarks, Dr. Recalde celebrated the diversity, character, and resilience of the Class of 2026. “Every one of you are examples that life circumstances do not determine your destiny, nor do they hinder your dreams. You all have proven your strength and your capability,” she said. Dr. Recalde went on to recognize how first-generation college students navigated unfamiliar terrain to create opportunities for social mobility for their families and how others raised children while on their academic journey. She concluded by expressing the region’s gratitude for the many veteran and active duty military students who achieved their educational goals at Palomar College.
Commencement speaker Jeffrey Epstein, Ph.D., a professor of philosophy and the 2024-25 Palomar College Distinguished Faculty Award winner, encouraged students to consider a quote attributed to Socrates “I know that I do not know” as they pursue their next adventure in life. Dr. Epstein explained that admitting they do not know allows them to cultivate the wonder necessary for a deeper and more nuanced understanding of experiences, of other people, of their place in the world, and the world itself. Each year, students nominate their professors for the Distinguished Faculty Award. During his speech he expressed gratitude to his students and thanked colleagues for always prioritizing student success.
Student speaker and 2025-26 Associated Student Government President Yaretzi Fernanda Hernandez addressed her fellow graduates in both English and Spanish. She reminded the Class of 2026 that they are proof that people can come from uncertainty and still build something extraordinary, referring to their completion of their path at Palomar College and moving on to make a further impact on society.
The class of 2026 graduates included the 2025-26 Valedictorian Terra White, who earned a 4.0 grade point average, while caring for her family and earning a degree in Psychology. For many years Terra thought she would never pursue higher education. With the support of Palomar College counselors and Rising Scholar program for formerly incarcerated students, she is graduating at 38 years old and transferring to CSU San Marcos to achieve her goal of becoming a psychologist. Including White, thirty-seven Rising Scholars graduated. The Rising Scholars program is designed to offer academic and support services for formerly incarcerated individuals who are dedicated to personal and professional success through education.
Palomar College is now enrolling students for the summer and fall terms. Prospective students can visit Palomar.edu for more information.