SLCC Commencement 2026 Celebrates First-Generation Students, Veterans, and Academic Excellence
On Friday, May 8, Salt Lake Community College (SLCC) will proudly celebrate the achievements of more than 4,000 graduates during its 2026 Commencement Ceremony at the Maverik Center in West Valley City.
SLCC's Class of 2026 includes 4,110 students, among them 1,890 first-generation college students and 176 military veterans. Graduates range in age from 16 to 70. The most commonly earned degrees are in General Education and General Studies, followed by Nursing, Business, and Certified Nursing Assistant programs.
"This is a big accomplishment that is significant to our graduates, but also to their families and those who have supported them along the way," said SLCC President Greg Peterson. "I am immensely proud of our graduates and confident that they are prepared to face both the challenges and opportunities ahead of them and in their potential to make a positive impact on their own lives and their communities."
In addition to recognizing its class of 2026, SLCC will honor Crystal Call Maggelet with an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree. Maggelet, CEO and chair of FJ Management and CEO of Maverik, has built her leadership on hard work, integrity, and a willingness to take on challenges. Her commitment to education is reflected in her philanthropic efforts to expand access for students facing barriers; she believes access to education creates a better world.
The college will also pay tribute to two former students with Distinguished Alumni Awards. Aaron Starks, president and CEO of 47G, and Fernanda Böhme Birkeland, co-founder of Böhme, will be recognized for their contributions to their communities and professions.
Starks credits his success to the people and opportunities that shaped his path. As a first-generation student, he found confidence and community at SLCC, where affordability and flexibility helped him succeed. Through his professional work, he brings together industry, government, and community partners to advance innovation in aerospace, defense, and energy. His leadership has helped position Utah as a national leader in emerging aviation technologies.
Böhme Birkeland's journey is rooted in resilience, creativity, and determination. She chose SLCC's Fashion Institute for its affordability and hands-on learning, where she found mentorship and industry-connected faculty. In 2006, she co-founded Böhme with her sibling, helping grow the company into a multi-state retail brand with a strong online presence.
State Representative Candice Pierucci will be recognized as the recipient of SLCC's 2026 Legislative Champion Award. Since her election in 2018, she has been a strong advocate for education and a dedicated champion for Salt Lake Community College. The youngest woman ever elected to the Utah Legislature, Representative Pierucci focuses on expanding opportunity and strengthening student pathways statewide. She currently serves as Majority Whip and chairs the House Education Committee.
Several faculty members will also be acknowledged during the ceremony. Aimee Worthen Birdsall, Erica Marie Grover, and Stacey Romney will receive Teaching Excellence Awards in recognition of their commitment to outstanding education.
The college will also recognize Ann Fillmore as its Distinguished Faculty Lecturer, honoring her work as a professor of English, Linguistics, and Writing Studies. Her research explores the history and evolution of Spanish in the American West.
In addition, eight students will receive SLCC's Graduates of Excellence Award, a prestigious distinction recognizing hard work and selflessness. Honorees include: