Sunken Garden Shines as William & Mary Biology Class of 2026 Graduates

WILLIAMSBURG, VA — Beneath a bright spring sky and the historic canopy of the Sunken Garden, the William & Mary Department of Biology celebrated its annual graduation ceremony on Saturday, May 16, 2026. The 3:00 PM event brought together faculty, staff, friends, and families to honor the remarkable achievements of 216 exceptional scholars.

The ceremony marked the culmination of years of rigorous academic scientific inquiry, late-night lab sessions in the Integrated Science Center (ISC), and dedicated field research. This year, the department proudly conferred 16 Master of Science degrees and 200 Bachelor of Science degrees.

A Celebration of Scientific Achievement

Dr. Matthias Leu, Professor and Chair of the Biology Department, led the afternoon’s proceedings. In his opening remarks, Dr. Leu commended the graduates for their resilience, intellectual curiosity, and deep commitment to the biological sciences—ranging from molecular and cellular breakthroughs to critical conservation and ecological advancements.

"The Class of 2026 has not just learned science; they have actively contributed to it," Dr. Leu noted, addressing the crowd of supportive onlookers. "They leave the nation's second-oldest institution fully equipped to solve complex global challenges, armed with analytical precision and an enduring passion for discovery."

An Epic Tradition Continues

A perennial highlight of the department’s graduation ceremony is the annual address by Professor Randy Chambers. Keeping a beloved, long-standing tradition alive, Dr. Chambers took to the podium to deliver his highly anticipated, custom-written epic poem dedicated to the graduating class.

Witty, rhythmic, and deeply sentimental, the poem wove together humorous nods to long hours spent over microscopes, field trips into local Virginia ecosystems, and the collective triumph of surviving final exams. The reading drew roaring applause, wide smiles, and a few nostalgic tears from students and parents alike, serving as a perfect creative send-off for the scientific cohort.

Recognizing Excellence: 2026 Departmental Awards

A key highlight of the afternoon was the presentation of the annual departmental awards, recognizing seniors who demonstrated exceptional scholarship, leadership, and research excellence in specific biological disciplines:

• The Leadership Award: Conferred to Marianna VanPelt Chan for her outstanding contributions to the departmental community, peer mentorship, and service.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

• The Magnum Award: Awarded to Jenna Jablonski in recognition of her stellar academic track record and dedication to scientific inquiry.

• Senior Award in Molecular Biology: Presented to Ana Kothandram for her exemplary research and advanced coursework at the molecular, genetic, and cellular levels.

• Senior Award in Organismal Biology: Granted to Leah Weinraub for her deep commitment to studying biological systems, ecology, and organismal functions.

 

 

 

 Looking Toward New Horizons

Following the presentation of awards, the graduates walked across the stage to receive their diplomas, greeted by enthusiastic cheers from the surrounding lawns. The diverse group of graduates includes future medical professionals, field ecologists, research scientists, educators, and policy advocates.

As the formal ceremony concluded, the Sunken Garden transformed into a lively reception where faculty mingled with families, photos were taken under the Williamsburg trees, and the newly minted alumni celebrated the official end of their undergraduate and graduate journeys at William & Mary.

Congratulations to the William & Mary Biology Class of 2026!