HARRISONBURG VA: (Rocktown Now) James Madison University marked a historic weekend as thousands of graduates crossed the stage to receive their diplomas, while the campus community also celebrated the formal installation of Dr. James C. Schmidt as the university’s seventh president. The dual milestone brought together students, families, alumni, faculty, and local leaders in a series of ceremonies that honored both academic achievement and a new chapter in JMU’s leadership.

The commencement exercises, held at the Atlantic Union Bank Center, recognized the accomplishments of the Class of 2026. According to JMU officials, 4,211 undergraduate and 526 graduate degrees were presented to the senior class. Graduates from across JMU’s colleges were cheered on by an audience that filled the stands, with many reflecting on the resilience and adaptability that defined their college years. Faculty members, dressed in full academic regalia, lined the procession route as the university’s brass ensemble played traditional ceremonial music.

Following the graduation ceremonies, attention turned to the inauguration of Dr. Schmidt, who was officially affirmed by the JMU Board of Visitors earlier this year. Schmidt, a Midwesterner with decades of higher education leadership experience, outlined his vision for the university’s future in his inaugural address. He emphasized expanding career readiness initiatives, strengthening community partnerships, and enhancing campus housing — priorities he has discussed with students and faculty since his arrival.

“This is a moment of both celebration and commitment,” Schmidt told the crowd. “We honor the achievements of our graduates, and we also look ahead to the work we will do together to ensure that JMU continues to thrive for generations to come.”

The weekend’s events underscored JMU’s dual focus on honoring tradition and embracing innovation. For graduates, it was a send-off into the next stage of their lives; for the university, it was the beginning of a new era under President Schmidt’s leadership.