2026 Graduates Urged to 'Take Joy'

At HIU's 2026 graduation ceremony, the newest graduates of the 192-year-old insitution were encouraged to "take joy" by Dr. Lucinda Mosher, who gave the commencement address.

Dr. Mosher gave a talk that detailed her own circuitous journey to full professorhood in her 70s. She encouraged the graduates to remember that their own paths may not be what they expect, but that they are equipped to do many important things.

"The certificate or diploma you are about to receive is an outward and visible sign of knowledge and skills acquired through your HIU studies. Go forth from here eager to apply them with reverent and abiding curiosity!"

Thirty-six graduates received certificates and diplomas in the following programs: Black Ministries Program; Graduate Certificates in Eco-Spirituality, Interreligious Studies, and Islamic Chaplaincy; MA in Interreligious Studies; MA in Religious Studies; MA in Chaplaincy; MA in International Peacebuilding; and Doctor of Ministry.

Two cohorts of Indonesian scholars from the PKUMI program were also recognized for their accomplishments during fall and spring experiences on campus.

Presiding over her first graduation as president, Dr. Sherry L. Turner spoke about the conflict, division, loneliness, and uncertainty in the world, and how the work of HIU graduates matters.

"The world already has enough voices competing to be louder. What is needed are people willing to listen deeply, lead compassionately, and build bridges where others build walls."

During the ceremony, Dr. Scott Thumma, who is soon retiring, was recognized for his service to HIU, which began in 1997. Dr. Deena Grant, Academic Dean and Vice President of Academic Affairs, spoke about Dr. Thumma's many roles at HIU, including directing the Hartford Institute for Religion Research.

"No amount of words or appreciation can convey the extent to which Dr. Thumma has impacted this institution," she said. 

The program included an untitled poem written by Professor Emerita Miriam Therese Winter on the theme of the school's symbol, the Ascending Dove, specifically for this year's graduation. 

Our symbol for the site we love
is that of an Ascending Dove.

Dove ascending.
Peace unending.
Cultures blending.
Love extending.

Caught up in the ebb and flow
of what to do and where to go,
may our energy never cease
in the realm of justice and peace.

Fly high, Ascending Dove,
on your mission
of leadership and love.

Speakers also read a spoken word collaboration on the theme of "Ascending" that was drawn from the question that went out to the HIU community: What does "ascending" mean to you?"

Student prizes

The Hartranft Scholarship, awarded to the degree program student who has “demonstrated excellence in written expression.” The prize is named after Chester David Hartranft, President of the Seminary from 1889 to 1903 and Professor of Biblical and Ecclesiastical History for 36 years.
Priscilla Velez

Ibrahim Abu Rabi' Prize, awarded to a student whose proficiency in Christian-Muslim Studies or commitment to interreligious relations is noteworthy. Candidates for this prize are nominated by the faculty. The prize is named for the highly respected Professor of Islamic Studies and Christian-Muslim Relations at HIU, 1991–2008, and the first Muslim in the U.S. to hold such a post. 
Rabia Muhammad

Mahmoud Ayoub Prize, awarded to a degree-program student who  has demonstrated notable proficiency in Islamic Studies. Candidates are nominated by the faculty. The prize is named for a beloved Shia scholar who served HIU as a Faculty Associate of Christian-Muslim Relations for many years. 
Adam Hajbane

Adelaide Locke Prize, awarded to a degree program student who “has demonstrated notable proficiency or interest in the field of scriptural studies.” Candidates for this prize are nominated by the faculty. The prize is in the name of Adelaide Locke who was part of the second class of women admitted fulltime in 1892, and captured the Hebrew, Greek, and Theology prizes during her studies. She served as the Professor of Biblical History at Wellesley College until 1924. 
James Koppa

Ephraim Isaac Fellowship in Prayer Awards, given to MAP students who bring to their peacebuilding work the qualities of perseverance, compassion for others, and respect for traditional wisdom exemplified by Dr. Isaac, who is known as the "Father of Peace" in Ethiopia.
Ayantu Abdissa

Celie J. Terry Prize, an interfaith service award known as the Celie J. Terry Prize, awarded to a student who demonstrates a commitment to academic achievement and excellence in interfaith community work in his or her local context. This prize is given in honor of a cherished employee of Sanford Cloud, a former chair of the HIU board of trustees.
Ruqiaya N. Akhtar

The entire ceremony can be view at this link.

Photos from our professional photographer will be available to next week.