Concord, N.C. – Cabarrus College of Health Sciences proudly celebrated more than 200 graduates in its historic spring 2026 commencement on Saturday, May 16. This year’s ceremony was particularly significant, as the college recognized the first graduating classes from several programs.
To commemorate this special occasion, Dr. Diane M. Uzarski, recently appointed as the fourth president of Cabarrus College, addressed graduates and their families.
“Today represents the culmination of hard work, determination and a shared commitment to caring for others,” Dr. Uzarski said. “I wish our graduates success and joy as they enter or advance in their healthcare careers, bringing their talents, compassion and passion to their patients and communities they will serve.”
Keynote speaker Roy Hawkins, Jr., senior vice president and president of Advocate Health Charlotte Area, underscored the significance of the moment, telling graduates, “You are not just entering the workforce—you are shaping the future of care. You are the momentum.”
The Cabarrus Health Sciences Institute – Cabarrus College’s early college high school – was founded in 2022 to expand educational and career options for first-generation and diverse students, is among this May's first graduating classes.
Of the 45 students in the first graduating class, 18 will remain enrolled for up to two more years to earn their degrees. The other 27 cohort members graduated with a high school diploma plus an associate degree, college credits or a medical assistant diploma.
Exemplifying student leadership within the biomedical sciences program, Alisha Samuels, a member of the inaugural cohort and a Leadership and Management minor, founded the Future Biomedical Innovators Club and served as a student ambassador, peer tutor and Social Media Club member.
“Cabarrus College has given me more than academics. It’s provided a sense of belonging,” said Samuels. “The mentorship, opportunities and friendships have shaped my journey, and I will always cherish the culture and community here.”
Building on her undergraduate experiences, Samuels will continue working as an EMT with Cabarrus County EMS while preparing for the MCAT and planning to attend medical school in 2028.
The Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy, launched in 2023, proudly celebrated its first cohort as North Carolina’s only hospital-based respiratory therapy program.
“Throughout my time in the program, I’ve developed a strong passion for pediatric and critical care, with a particular interest in working in the PICU and participating in patient transport,” said respiratory therapy graduate, Mylia Belton, who will work as a respiratory care assistant at Levine Children’s Hospital while she completes her program requirements this summer with a goal of transitioning into a registered respiratory therapist.
After commencement, the Louise Harkey School of Nursing held its pinning ceremony for associate, bachelor's, and master's students, including the first traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (TBSN) cohort. Graduates received nursing pins, symbolizing their commitment to compassionate care and professional excellence.
TBSN grad Lauren Harrison, will begin her nursing career in the emergency department at Atrium Health University City in Charlotte.
“My ultimate goal is to become a sexual assault nurse examiner or forensic nurse, so I can provide specialized care and advocacy for patients affected by violence or trauma,” Harrison said.
Rounding out the festivities, 30 graduates from the Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) program were honored in a separate pinning ceremony, marking their transition to professional practice. Family, faculty and friends gathered to celebrate the MOT graduates’ hard work and readiness to make a meaningful impact in their field.
As these graduates embark on their next chapters, they carry forward not only academic achievements but a deep sense of purpose and service. Collectively, the graduating class contributed more than 7,000 volunteer hours throughout their time at Cabarrus College, exemplifying their commitment to service and making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
About Cabarrus College of Health Sciences
Cabarrus College of Health Sciences is a private, nonprofit institution dedicated to educating and developing the next generation of healthcare professionals through student-centered, career-focused programs. The College is an academic partner of Atrium Health, which is part of Advocate Health, providing students with strong clinical integration, real world learning, and direct pathways into the health care workforce. Through this close connection to a leading national health system, Cabarrus College prepares compassionate, practice ready graduates who serve their communities with excellence.