Grads celebrating after the ceremony
River Parishes Community College (RPCC) proudly celebrated the achievements of the Class of 2026 during the college’s 26th Commencement Ceremony, honoring graduates from the Gonzales, Reserve, Westside, and United Way of St. Charles campuses.
Held before family members, friends, faculty, staff, and community leaders, the ceremony recognized the hard work and perseverance of 455 graduates and completers earning associate degrees, technical diplomas, certificates, and high school equivalency credentials.
“Today represents more than a graduation ceremony — it represents determination, sacrifice, and opportunity,” said RPCC Chancellor Quintin D. Taylor. “Our graduates have worked tirelessly to reach this milestone, and we are proud to celebrate the impact they will make in our communities, industries, and beyond.”
RPCC Faculty leading the procession during the 26th RPCC commencement ceremony
The ceremony featured a commencement address from Timothy W. Hardy, Chairman of the Louisiana Community and Technical College System Board of Supervisors. Hardy, a respected environmental attorney and longtime public servant, encouraged graduates to embrace leadership, lifelong learning, and service as they begin the next chapter of their journeys.
The commencement program also highlighted the accomplishments of students graduating with academic honors, members of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, Student Government Association leaders, Dow Apprenticeship Program graduates, military-affiliated graduates, and scholarship recipients. RPCC announced that 230 students graduated with honors and recognized a record-breaking year of scholarship support through the RPCC Foundation, which awarded $195,000 in scholarships to 89 students during the 2025–2026 academic year
Following the ceremony, graduates and guests were invited to continue the celebration during the RPCC Class of 2026 Career Celebration, sponsored by Air Products. The event featured complimentary food and entertainment, professional headshots, a selfie photo booth, access to the RPCC Career Closet, and opportunities to connect with four-year universities and industry partners about future education and career opportunities
RPCC also recognized Air Products for serving as the presenting sponsor of the Commencement Ceremony and Career Celebration, along with numerous university and industry partners who participated in the post-ceremony event
For more information about River Parishes Community College, visit RPCC.edu.
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