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A graduate in a cap, gown, and gold USM stole stands in the staging area at Cross Insurance Arena, looking ahead before the processional begins.

The Class of 2026, by the Numbers

On May 9, thousands of people packed Cross Insurance Arena for USM’s 146th Commencement ceremony. Keep reading to see the Class of 2026 by the numbers.

Najmo Ahmed smiles in front of a wall of bookshelves.

Class of ’26: Meet Najmo Ahmed, USM’s Student Commencement Speaker

Najmo Ahmed has a lot going on. She’s finishing her bachelor’s degree in social and behavioral sciences at the University of Southern Maine, interning at the Maine Department of Health and Human Services, and working toward a master’s in public health — all while preparing a commencement address her mother doesn’t even know about. Keep reading to hear how she got here, what drives her, and what she wants people to take away from her story.

Bridgette Toland smiles in front of a flowering pink tree. Text reads "Dear USM," with an illustrated graduation cap drawn above her head.

Class of ’26: A Love Letter to USM

For four years, USM has been more than just a school — it’s been the place where I found my people, my purpose, and myself. Keep reading to hear what I wish I’d known sooner, and what I’m carrying with me as I go.