MOUNT OLIVE, NC – Wearing commemorative 75th Anniversary stoles, members of the University of Mount Olive’s Class of 2026 passed through the Alumni Crosswalk before commencement as students and returned through it as graduates. The Friday, May 8 ceremony marked both the completion of their degrees and their formal place within the University’s 75-year history.
In his opening remarks, University President H. Edward Croom recognized military service members and veterans in attendance and, in honor of Mother’s Day weekend, invited mothers throughout the arena to stand for special recognition, creating one of the ceremony’s heartfelt early moments.
Adding to the day’s memorable atmosphere, the University’s nationally and internationally recognized a cappella ensemble Carolina Sound delivered stirring performances of the National Anthem and “God Bless the USA,” drawing thunderous applause as their powerful vocals underscored both the patriotic spirit and emotional significance of the occasion.
This year’s commencement speaker, former NFL standout, ESPN analyst, and former Indianapolis Colts Interim Head Coach Jeff Saturday, grounded his address in both personal experience and Biblical wisdom, offering graduates three guiding principles: perseverance, understanding one’s role, and seeking wisdom.
Referencing James 1:12, Saturday reminded graduates, “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial,” emphasizing that resilience often defines future success more than immediate achievement.
Drawing from his NFL career, marriage, and personal faith, Saturday encouraged graduates to remain steadfast not only professionally, but spiritually. “Perseverance is what separates potential from purpose,” Saturday said. “Keep going anyway.”
He also emphasized humility and teamwork, citing 1 Corinthians 12 and Philippians 2:3 to stress that success is often built by understanding one’s role within a larger purpose. “Wherever you go next, ask yourself, ‘How can I contribute to something bigger than myself?’” he said.
Turning to wisdom, Saturday referenced James 1:5, reminding graduates that true wisdom comes not simply from knowledge, but from seeking God’s guidance. “In a world full of information, wisdom is one of the rarest things you can possess,” Saturday said.
Closing with Joshua 1:9, Saturday challenged graduates to move boldly into their futures: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Following his address, Saturday personally greeted each graduate, presenting Bibles and shaking hands as they crossed the stage.
Board of Trustees Chair Don Lassiter congratulated graduates on reaching this milestone, recognizing both their determination and the families, faculty, and mentors who supported them along the way, while UMO Alumni Association President Norman Crumpacker formally welcomed the Class of 2026 into the University’s growing alumni network. “Graduates leave this campus with more than degrees,” said Crumpacker. “They carry forward the friendships, values, and experiences that connect them to a lifelong Trojan community.”
During the ceremony, the University recognized two recipients of the Morris Award for Academic Excellence, presented annually to the traditional and online students with the highest academic averages. Alina Esser, a Psychology major from Germany, was honored for her academic excellence, undergraduate research, and honors scholarship. Esser recently presented her thesis research on sleep and mental health at the National Conference on Undergraduate Research and will return to Germany to attend medical school. Amanda Elizabeth Riley of Louisburg, NC, a UMO Online graduate in Cybersecurity and Applied Computer Science, was recognized for her exceptional academic consistency, leadership, and commitment to excellence.
This year’s spring graduating class represented students from two continents, 10 countries, and 18 states. Of the 286 May graduates, 29 earned associate degrees, 236 received bachelor’s degrees, and 21 were awarded master’s degrees.
President Croom closed the ceremony by reminding graduates that their degrees represent not only academic accomplishment, but also a calling to lead lives of service and impact. “As you leave the University of Mount Olive, remember that your education has prepared you for more than a profession,” said Croom. “You are equipped to lead with integrity, serve with compassion, and make meaningful contributions wherever God calls you. We celebrate your achievements today and look forward to the difference you will make in the world.”
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