Virginia Commonwealth University Arts School Celebrates Class of 2026 Graduation

Commencement Ceremony Highlights Achievements of Graduates

Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar (VCUarts Qatar) held its 25th annual Commencement ceremony on May 4 at the Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel. The event recognized the accomplishments of 69 students graduating from various undergraduate and graduate programs, including Art History, Graphic Design, Interior Design, Painting and Printmaking, and the Master of Fine Arts in Design. The ceremony not only celebrated their academic achievements but also marked their entry into an expanding global alumni network.

Despite the challenges posed by the transition to online learning during the spring semester, the Class of 2026 maintained VCUarts Qatar’s high standards of academic rigor. Graduates successfully adapted to the evolving educational landscape, showcasing their ability to produce high-caliber work under unprecedented conditions.

Messages of Encouragement from University Leadership

The ceremony featured recorded remarks from several leaders of Virginia Commonwealth University, including Dr. Michael Rao, VCU President; Dr. Arturo Saavedra, Executive Vice President and Provost; and Dr. Carmenita Higginbotham, Dean of VCUarts. President Rao emphasized the significance of the graduates’ achievements amid ongoing challenges, stating, ‘You are graduating at a time when the world needs thoughtful, creative leaders more than ever.’ His message underscored the importance of creativity and compassion as the graduates prepare to navigate a complex world.

Dean Amir Berbić also addressed the graduates, reflecting on their perseverance during a semester that required them to adapt to virtual learning environments. He acknowledged the challenges faced by students in completing their senior theses and final projects away from the supportive atmosphere of studios and classrooms. ‘You proved that meaningful creative work does not depend on perfect conditions,’ he stated, highlighting the qualities of curiosity, rigor, and resourcefulness demonstrated by the graduates.

Inspiring Words from Commencement Speaker and Valedictorians

Sheikha Reem Al-Thani, Deputy CEO of AL RIWAQ, Public Art, and Rubaiya Qatar at Qatar Museums, served as the Commencement speaker. Her address encouraged graduates to embrace uncertainty and prioritize depth over speed in their creative endeavors. She remarked, ‘Meaningful work takes time… Don’t let speed define your value. Depth will always matter more.’ Al-Thani’s insights resonated with the graduates, emphasizing the importance of contributing to a cultural identity that is still evolving.

The title of Valedictorian was awarded to Khawla Zaki Al-Essa and Sruthi Subash, who shared the highest academic ranking in their class. Their joint speech reflected on their non-linear journey and expressed gratitude for the support received from family, friends, and the VCUarts Qatar community. Al-Essa noted, ‘We are not graduating in a time of simplicity… But perhaps that is exactly why our work matters.’ Subash echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of community and support as they step into the next chapter of their lives.

Frequently Asked Questions

What programs does VCUarts Qatar offer?

VCUarts Qatar offers Bachelor of Fine Arts degrees in graphic design, interior design, kinetic imaging, and painting and printmaking, as well as a Bachelor of Arts in art history and a Master of Fine Arts in design.

Who were the speakers at the Commencement ceremony?

The ceremony featured remarks from VCU leadership including Dr. Michael Rao, and a keynote address by Sheikha Reem Al-Thani.

What challenges did the Class of 2026 face?

The Class of 2026 faced challenges due to the shift to online learning, requiring them to adapt their final projects and theses to virtual formats.

What is the significance of VCUarts Qatar’s 25th Commencement?

The 25th Commencement marks a milestone in VCUarts Qatar’s history, celebrating the resilience and achievements of its graduates over the past quarter-century.