MADISON, FL — North Florida College celebrated one of its largest and most memorable Grad Fest
events to date on April 30 as graduates, family members and community supporters gathered
on campus ahead of NFC’s historic Spring 2026 Commencement ceremonies.
Held at 3 p.m. outside the Marshall W. Hamilton Library, following grad practice,
the event served as a celebration of the Class of 2026 and recognized the accomplishments
of students preparing to walk across the stage during the College’s three commencement
ceremonies held the following week.
This year’s Grad Fest was made possible in part through the support of First Federal
Bank and Madison County Community Bank, whose sponsorships helped create a festive
and welcoming experience for graduates and their families.
The celebration featured music, photo opportunities, refreshments, yard sign pickups,
graduation regalia assistance and opportunities for students to commemorate their
achievements with friends, faculty and loved ones before commencement day.
“Grad Fest has become one of the most meaningful traditions at NFC because it gives
students and families a chance to pause and celebrate everything they’ve accomplished,”
said Katie Terry, NFC Coordinator of Graduation and Enrollment Services. “The support
of community partners like First Federal Bank and Madison County Community Bank helps
make these moments even more special for our graduates.”
With commencement expanded to three ceremonies this spring due to record participation,
attendance at Grad Fest reached one of the highest levels in recent years, reflecting
the continued growth and momentum of the College.
“NFC is deeply grateful for the businesses and organizations that continue to invest
in our students and celebrate their success,” said Traci McClung, NFC Director of
Resource Development. “Community partnerships play an important role in helping us
create experiences our graduates will remember for years to come.”
North Florida College extends its appreciation to Madison County Community Bank and
First Federal Bank for supporting student success as a platinum level sponsor and
helping make the 2026 Grad Fest celebration a memorable experience for the Class of
2026.
For more information about supporting student success initiatives at North Florida
College, contact Traci McClung at (850) 973-9416 or email McClungT@nfc.edu
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Spring 2026 Grad Fest Crowd
NFC Platinum Guardians of Graduation, Madison County Community Bank: L to R: NFC Employees - Katie Terry, Graduation Specialist and Allison Finley, Director of Communications & Recruitment and MCCB Employees - Edward Meggs, Cindy James, Sherry Burnette, Jodi Phillips, Christopher Day, Don Ashley and NFC Employees - Melanie Morgan, Director of Student Engagement and Traci McClung, Director of Resource Development
NFC Platinum Guardians of Graduation, First Federal Bank: L to R – NFC Employee - Brienna Valentine, First Federal Bank Employee: Brooke Hurst, Heather Thompson, Stephanie McClendon, NFC Employee -Traci McClung