Lawrenceville, GA – Gwinnett Technical College awarded more than 700 degrees, diplomas, and certificates during its 2026 Commencement Ceremony on May 12 at Gas South Arena, marking the largest graduating class in the college’s history.
President Dr. D. Glen Cannon presided over the ceremony, which honored graduates from a wide range of academic programs, including healthcare, engineering, computer science, and culinary arts. Psychology Program Director Tracey Duck, Gwinnett Tech’s Rick Perkins Instructor of the Year, delivered the commencement address.
“Graduates, you are part of the largest class in the history of Gwinnett Technical College,” Cannon said. “This spring semester, you were joined by more than 12,700 fellow students, and we are grateful that you chose GTC to be part of your personal and professional journey.”
Many graduates balanced full-time jobs, family responsibilities, and financial hardship while completing their education. Cannon praised their perseverance and determination.
“Our graduates met adversity head-on and, through sheer will and self-determination, pushed through every barrier,” Cannon said. “Today, they are ready to stake their claim to great careers, launch their own businesses, and take control of their destiny.”
Cannon also emphasized the role faculty and staff played in student success. “While this success is personally earned, it is also made possible by our extraordinary faculty and staff,” he said. “From instructors who went above and beyond in the classroom to staff who ensured students could register, access technology, and learn in a safe, well-equipped environment, their commitment made this moment possible.”
Cannon asked faculty and staff to stand during the ceremony and led graduates and guests in applause for their contributions.
“Our faculty and staff persevered alongside our students to deliver the real-world, hands-on training they deserve,” Cannon said. “Today, we celebrate not only our graduates, but the people who guided and supported them every step of the way.”
Following graduation, many students will enter the workforce, while others will continue their education through transfer agreements with colleges and universities across Georgia. Gwinnett Technical College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges and offers 21 programs with industry-specific accreditations, several of which rank among the top 10 in the nation.
For more information about Gwinnett Technical College and its programs, visit GwinnettTech.edu
