Celebrating Spring 2026 Graduates

Our Spring 2026 graduating class is made up of inspiring, resilient students dedicated to their studies, passions and community. Throughout their time at Upstate, these graduates have found success both inside and outside the classroom. Key to their accomplishments has been mentorship from faculty, staff and leadership, along with encouragement from their peers.

We congratulate all members of the Class of 2026 and hope you enjoy these stories about some of their Upstate experiences.

Jessica Ball

Nursing | Greer, SC

Jessica Ball remembers a moment from nursing school that assured her she was on the right path. During a clinical rotation, a patient looked at her instructor, pointed at Ball, and said, “She is going to be a great nurse one day.” Her clinical experiences at Spartanburg Regional Hospital and the outstanding nursing school instruction she’s received have helped shape Bell into the nurse she wants to be.

As she prepares to graduate, Ball is set to embark on a dual-track career of service. She plans to commission as a nurse in the Air Force Reserves while also launching her civilian nursing career in the Upstate region.

She credits Upstate’s rigorous academic foundation for giving her the confidence to tackle the NCLEX and provide compassionate, safe care.

Ball recommends incoming nursing students say humble and open to learning. “Every great nurse you will meet was once in your exact position. Take full advantage of every opportunity, especially the ones that challenge you the most. Seeking out experiences that push you outside of your comfort zone are the moments that will help you grow into the nurse you aspire to be.”

Avery Beaton

Communications – Mass Media | Boiling Springs, SC

Avery Beaton discovered a calling in journalism at USC Upstate. A communications major with a minor in theater, Avery has a clear post-graduation goal: work as a local reporter.

Their career goals came into focus while serving as editor of The Carolinian, USC Upstate’s student-run newspaper. It was there that they developed their journalism experience and leadership skills alongside an “incredible” team.

Avery credits Upstate’s professional prep courses and Career Services as invaluable resources that helped them build a strong portfolio and develop the tools and confidence needed to enter the professional world.

Avery’s experiences inform their advice to new students: “Get involved with clubs and organizations, do things that are outside your comfort zone because you’re only here for a few years.”

Alison Cortes

Biology | Greenville, SC

Alison Cortes wasn’t intending to take on a leadership role when she joined the Latin American Student Organization (LASO) at Upstate. But when she became president, she rose to the challenge. She learned how to take the initiative, support others and represent her culture.

The confidence she built as a result, and the realization she could have an impact, carried into her academic work as well. She explored her interests in psychology and Spanish interpreting and translation, which she is minoring in, and developed communication skills and cultural awareness that will be important in her health care career.

Her coursework also challenged her to think critically and stay disciplined. As she prepares to apply to physician assistant programs, she feels ready for what comes next.

She encourages new students to “always say yes to new opportunities, even if you’re not completely sure what they’ll involve. Some of my best experiences came from stepping into the unknown, and those moments opened the door to incredible opportunities and personal growth.”

Alison is a proud recipient of an Upstate 7 award.

Braylen Covington

Computer Science | Spartanburg, SC

Braylen Covington spent four years at USC Upstate developing computer science skills but his most transformative experience came in a completely different field.

In the fall of 2023, he spontaneously decided to audition for a campus theater production — and landed a major role. With little previous acting experience, he had to learn fast, but his confidence grew as a result. He also realized how important it is to take risks and try new things, since doing so helped him see he was capable of doing more than he thought.

That same spirit of personal exploration carried into Braylen’s professional development at Upstate. Beyond the technical proficiencies he gained in class, he took advantage of opportunities such as the Chancellor Ambassadors program to hone his leadership, communication, and collaborative abilities. He hopes to apply all these skills to a job in network administration, project management, or data analysis.

Braylen encourages incoming students to explore new interests in college: “Take that leap of faith. Join that organization. Take that opportunity to lead. Go to that event. Talk to that inspiring person. You might regret it if you don’t, but you’ll be super satisfied because you did. And check your emails — they may contain those cool opportunities!”

Autumn Edge

Exercise & Sport Science | Greenville, SC

Autumn Edge experienced some of her most significant growth at Upstate through participating in campus organizations and clubs. The leadership skills and connections she developed are ones that will serve her well in her future career.

After graduation, Autumn will be applying to doctoral programs in physical therapy. She feels ready for what comes thanks to the many opportunities for career, professional and personal growth she took part in at Upstate. Whether attending career fairs or meetings, Autumn found many ways to sharpen her skills.

As a result, she advises new students, “Don’t be afraid to meet new people. The most important thing in a career is having connections. Start building those early and don’t be afraid to put yourself out there!”

Mufaddal Fidahussein ’15

Nursing | Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Although this is Mufaddal Fidahussein’s second bachelor’s degree from USC Upstate, his experience has been no less impactful this time around. The relationships he built during his clinical experience have helped prepare him for his new career path. Working closely with instructors and health care teams has showed him how to apply classroom learning to real-world patient care.

Experience informs Mufaddal’s advice to others: “Be comfortable moving forward despite uncertainty. You will doubt yourself, question your path, and feel unprepared at times — do it anyway. Growth comes from stepping forward when you don’t feel ready. Face uncertainty with courage and keep going.”

Those same professionals have also prepared him to become “the most excellent nurse I can be” by providing him with guidance and expectations that helped build his confidence and develop his clinical judgment. That support has made his transition from student to health care provider feel clearer and more intentional.

Tracey Garrett

Political Science | Winnsboro, SC

Tracey Garrett learned early in life that giving up was not an option for him. Raised in a single-parent household, he developed the strength to get through tough times, something that helped him through the death of his best friend when he was a sophomore at Upstate. Mentors such as Tierney Bates, Chancellor Bennie Harris and instructor Benjamin McCraw provided support and guidance and kept him going on his collegiate journey.

Tracey’s experiences strengthened his resilience and determination to succeed despite challenges. The mentors and opportunities he’s had have contributed to his academic and personal growth and taught him perseverance, leadership, and how to navigate difficulties. These skills have given him confidence as he prepares to start the MBA program at USC Aiken.

Given his experiences, Tracey encourages new students to “find a group of professional staff and mentors who can guide and support you throughout your college journey, because having people who believe in you makes all the difference.”

Ximena Gonzalez Sanchez

Exercise & Sport Science | Spartanburg, SC

Ximena Gonzalez Sanchez is passionate about using her Spanish skills to connect with and support underserved communities. Becoming involved in El Centro Latino while at Upstate enabled her to do just that while also gaining hands-on experience.

She credits the mentorship of professor Araceli Hernández-Laroche, El Centro’s director, for pushing her to pursue opportunities she otherwise wouldn’t have. Hernández-Laroche’s support and belief in her helped Ximena grow in confidence and motivated her to challenge herself. Ximena plans to pursue a career in physical therapy after graduation so she can help others improve their quality of life.

Her classes have given her the knowledge to succeed and the ability to stay focused and disciplined. She has also developed strong collaboration and communication skills that will help her in her field.

Given her own experiences, she encourages new students to take advantage of the opportunities they’re given. “Don’t be afraid to get involved. The professors and staff are there to support you, so take the time to connect with them. The more you put yourself out there, the more you’ll grow.”

Rayney Hutchinson

Experimental Psychology | Chesnee, SC

The highlight of Rayney Hutchinson’s time at Upstate came when she traveled to New Orleans for SEPA to present her research. Not only was she able to speak on a subject she is passionate about, but she also got to interact with other like-minded scholars at the conference and learn about their work. An additional benefit was developing a close mentoring relationship with Dr. Jennifer Gray.

As she began thinking about her post-graduation plans, Rayney appreciated the resume help she received from Tim Driscoll in Career Services and the willingness of her psychology professor Dr. B to provide feedback on her personal statement.

Because of the resources and support available to her, Rayney will be pursuing a master’s in child and adolescent advocacy through an online program at Winona State University.

She suggests new students “get to know your professors. Go to their office hours, even if you don’t have anything pressing to talk about. Your professors are here for you; sometimes all you need to do is reach out.”

Gina Hyde

Information Technology | Boiling Springs, SC

Gina Hyde’s road to degree completion has involved many starts and stops over the years, but at USC Upstate she found a clear route to her goal.

Earning two associate degrees at Spartanburg Community College before coming to Upstate helped boost Gina’s confidence that she could succeed in college. She has pursued her degree while working as a technology specialist at Spartanburg High School.

Gina was most shaped by her coursework and mentorship. She especially enjoyed exploring jazz with Zachary Pruitt, strengthening her business writing with Michelle Griffin, delving into informatics with Grover Walters and Millicent Springs‑Campbell, and learning about AI with Ron Fulbright. These classes expanded her skills, boosted her confidence, and prepared her not only for graduate school but also for continued growth in her professional career.

Georgia McClintock in Career Management provided an additional confidence boost. She helped Gina see herself as a professional and showed her how her background, skills, and story have value. Gina’s next step will be starting the master’s program in marriage and family therapy at Converse University.

As a nontraditional student, she says her biggest piece of advice for other students is, “Do not compare your path to anyone else’s. Each part of your path brings real-world experience and perspective that will help you succeed. Don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself. Your journey is valid.”

Abby Inman

Computer Science | Union, SC

Abby Inman did more than earn a degree at Upstate – she also developed the skills that led to a job in her field. Working as both a help desk technician and IT student developer, Abby built meaningful relationships with her peers and mentors while also gaining real-world experience. The professional environment also sharpened her technical and communication skills, preparing her for her post-graduation job as a software engineer with Global Lending Services.

Upstate gave Abby both a strong academic foundation and opportunities to apply what she was learning. Working on real systems and collaborating with others honed her technical and problem-solving skills and gave her confidence as she prepares to step into her full-time job.

Her advice to new students is, “Get involved on campus. Whether that means working a campus job, joining clubs, or hosting study groups, just try to be involved. I did all of this, and I’m very glad that I did. It helped me have a larger support system and get the most out of college.”

Brooklyn Lawter

Experimental Psychology | Cowpens, SC

Brooklyn Lawter became a mom just one week before she started at Upstate four years ago. Since then, several relationships have proved vital to her success. Hannah Terpack and Georgia McClintock at Career Management served as “incredible mentors and supporters” throughout her time at Upstate. And on days when she felt like giving up, her partner, Alex, was there to encourage her.

Last summer, Brooklyn began interning at Oshkosh Delivery as their first year-round intern, a role for which her classes helped prepare her. Her professors, especially those in psychology, have provided both academic and personal guidance, and Brooklyn built many meaningful connections with them.

As she prepares to step into a full-time position at Oshkosh as their new HR coordinator, Brooklyn advises new students to find their “why.” “Whether it’s someone you care about, a dream you’re chasing, or a goal you’ve set for yourself, knowing your purpose will carry you through college. It helps make the tough days worth it and keeps you motivated to show up and give your best.”

David Long

Criminal Justice | Campobello, SC

David Long’s study of criminal justice has included a concentration in crime analysis. With the solid foundation of knowledge and skills he’s acquired in both subjects, he plans to pursue a career as a crime analyst, intelligence analyst, or fraud investigator in either the public or private sector. In the meantime, he’ll be returning to USC Upstate in the fall to start a master’s in criminal justice.

David also volunteers with Upstate Underground, where he serves as vice president of training and as a civilian OSINT investigator. He will be continuing that work moving forward.

David formed strong relationships with his professors and credits their support and encouragement with pushing him to realize his full potential — both in the classroom and in the workplace.

He advises new students, “Take every opportunity to attend Upstate-sponsored events outside of the classroom, in person or virtually, that could supplement your education or help your career in any way. Upstate hosts these types of events regularly, and most of the time they are either free or discounted for students — the networking connections alone can make all the difference.”

Charmeyne Medero-Rivera

Political Science | Greenville, SC

The connections Charmeyne Medero-Rivera forged at Upstate have been an important part of her personal journey. The people she met have helped her stay grounded and made her feel less alone as she navigated college.

Her experiences have taught her how to network and make strong professional connections so she’s ready for her career. She discovered the wisdom of the old advice “it’s not what you know but who you know.”

She advises new students, “Get out of your comfort zone and make connections, whether big or small. You never know how those connections will help you in the future.”

Kennedy Mills

Early Childhood Education | Chesnee, SC

Kennedy Mills will soon be entering the classroom as a teacher, but some of the most important lessons she’s learned have come from the people she’s met in the USC Upstate admissions office.

The many hours she spent in the offices of Tara Bradley, Donette Stewart, Dawn Scruggs, Ms. Rhonda and Ira Pace as both a student worker and a mentee helped her grow personally and professionally. The knowledge she gained from the admissions team not only shaped her as a student, but as a future educator.

She also honed her skills as a teacher through reading clinics, clinical placements and several unforgettable experiences with her cohort at the College of Education. These experiences have given her confidence to start her job teaching third grade at Carlisle-Foster’s Grove Elementary School in Chesnee this fall.

While college can sometimes feel overwhelming to new students, Kennedy suggests taking it one day at a time. “Some days are harder than others; but at the end, you realize the years have gone by in the blink of an eye. Make the memories, say yes to new challenges, and never be afraid to rise up at Upstate!”

Deavonte Morris

Interdisciplinary Studies | Greenwood, SC

Deavonte Morris came to Upstate shortly after the death of his godmother. Still dealing with grief, he struggled at first in school. But he kept going, even when he lost his grandmother to cancer the following year and his uncle last year. He managed to keep up his grades and learn something about himself.

“Being here really showed me how strong I truly am,” he says. “No matter what I went through, I always won in the end.”

A close group of friends not only provided support when he needed it most but became a cherished family to him. Professionally, an internship and the responsibilities that came with it helped prepare him to work after college and perhaps even apply for master’s program down the road.

His advice for students is simple: “Make sure you do your work on time. If you can just have one work day, you’ll make it.”

Mya Morris

Experimental Psychology | Columbia, SC

Mya Morris is driven by a desire to make things better for people. She spent her time at USC Upstate building a résumé rooted in service — working as a fitness instructor, tutoring students in Spanish, and founding her own running and walking club, First Mile Friends. She believes that small steps have the potential to create a meaningful, beautiful and lasting impact.

Seeing the growth in the people who took part in the activities she organized was inspiring. “Taking the first step may have been difficult for them, but being a voice of encouragement meant the most to me,” Mya says.

That desire to help others extended beyond campus, too. Through community translation and interpretation work, Mya advocated for individuals who struggle to be heard — an experience that deepened her confidence and sharpened her leadership.

She plans to continue uplifting others after graduation by using her degree and experiences to promote positive change in the community. Mya’s advice to new students: “If there is any idea, project, or change you want to see, go for it. You are important, never forget that.”

Cayden Nixon

Communications – Mass Media | Rock Hill, SC

Cayden Nixon’s time at USC Upstate was an opportunity to pursue two of her passions: American Sign Language and theater. Both have been part of Cayden’s life since she was in middle school. At Upstate she took part in the first-ever ASL-interpreted play and continued to interpret theater performances for the next three years.

Cayden strongly believes in creativity connecting people, something her ASL interpreting has supported. Upstate’s communication and ASL programs have prepared her academically and socially for life after graduation and the organizations she’s been part of have helped her meet diverse people who have taught her positive forms of communication.

She plans to work toward certification as an ASL interpreter while further engaging with others in the deaf community around the state.

She advises new students not to rush college. “Every adult says it, but these years truly do fly by at a fast rate. Make sure to fully enjoy each year with friends and get to know your professors and colleagues.”

Vaishnika Panjala

Master of Business Analytics | Hyderabad, South India

Vaishnika Panjala came to USC Upstate seeking to transition into the tech world from her previous career in commerce. The master’s program was a step toward expanding her career opportunities, building specialized competencies, and become more competitive in the job market.

Vaishnika also saw graduate school as a place to develop critical thinking, gain practical knowledge, and build a strong professional network to support her long-term goals. Those include finding job opportunities in the U.S. that combine analytics and AI. She is especially interested in business environments where data-driven thinking is central to growth and operations.

The people she met at Upstate were all very approachable, and Vaishnika appreciates how supportive the community is. “It didn’t feel overwhelming; there was always guidance when needed,” she says. “I also liked how the program was flexible and practical, which made it easier to actually understand and apply what I was learning.”

Ameira Richardson

Cybersecurity | Forest Park, Ga.

Studying cybersecurity at Upstate strengthened Ameira Richardson’s conviction that she was on the right academic path. She enjoyed the professors who taught her classes, especially Melissa Davis, whose passion and knowledge of the field were inspiring. After graduation Ameira plans to study for the CompTIA Security++ certification while continuing her job search.

Her advice to new students is, “Make friends, because it’ll be easier to overcome similar obstacles together. Also, please use as many school resources as possible.”

Damien Richardson

Nursing | Fountain Inn, SC

Coming from a military background, Damien Richardson values discipline and teamwork. He found both those qualities in USC Upstate’s nursing program.

The experiences that shaped him the most at Upstate were his clinical rotations and the relationships he built with instructors and peers. He recalls a moment during a clinical rotation when an instructor challenged him to think critically and advocate for his patients. The experience deepened his confidence in his clinical judgment and highlighted the importance of accountability and leadership.

Upstate’s simulation labs, coursework and clinical rotations gave Damien a strong foundation in both nursing and critical thinking. He credits nursing school with helping him apply the resilience he developed in the military to a health care setting. Damien now feels confident about becoming a professional RN and handing the responsibilities of the role. Upon passing the NCLEX, he plans to work for one of the health care systems in the Upstate.

His advice to incoming students is to “stay disciplined and manage your time well from the beginning. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, lean on your classmates, and utilize the free tutoring services. Always remember your ‘why’ because that will keep you motivated during the tough times and long nights.”

Álex Sánchez-Erazo

Political Science | Fountain Inn, SC

Álex Sánchez-Erazo discovered his calling during his time at Upstate. Senior instructor Tammy Pike inspired him to become a political science major, which led him to gain experience in the political realm. He also made valuable connections with local legislators and officials. Álex hopes to put his knowledge to work on a midterm election campaign after graduation.

He was also inspired by senior Spanish instructor María Francisco Montesó, who encouraged him to embrace his bilingualism as a professional skill. Her mentorship sparked a passion for Spanish translation and interpreting, in which he minored, and gave him a new confidence in his cultural identity.

Outside of class, Álex pursued opportunities to develop his leadership skills through programs such as Avanzando, executive leadership, and the Chancellor Ambassadors, as well as an internship and ambassadorship with the Office of Civic Engagement. The skills, connections, and confidence he gained have prepared him to be a leader and equipped him for a career in public policy.

He encourages new students to have the confidence to try new things: “Go out and expose yourself! Before coming to Upstate, I was an introvert; I kept to myself and did not dare speak in front of a crowd. After four years as a USC Upstate student, I have been involved in everything, met so many people, and can proudly say that I love making connections, getting involved, and seeing what doors open for me. The doors are waiting for you to turn the knob and open them.”

Carson Shaw

Communications | Summerville, SC

Playing softball at Upstate has been pivotal to Carson Shaw’s growth. Being on the team helped her become a confident leader who leads by example and puts others first. Her relationships with her teammates and coach have helped her develop as both an athlete and person. She’s learned accountability, resilience and how to support people through both success and adversity. These experiences have strengthened Carson’s confidence, work ethic and ability to lead in any environment.

Carson has also gained important career skills in communication, marketing and teamwork though her academic experiences, internships and leadership roles.

With the tools and resources she had, she felt able to achieve anything she set her mind to and prepared to step into her career ready to learn and make an impact.

She notes that half of being successful in college is just showing up. “Showing up to class, to meetings, to work, to practice, and for other people. If you show up consistently and put in the effort, opportunities will come your way. The small moments of effort add up, and that consistency is what sets you apart. It’s not about being perfect, it’s about being present.”

Malachi Smith

Physical Education | Spartanburg, SC

Being part of Call Me MISTER has been central to Malachi Smith’s development as an educator. The support he received from his peers pushed him out of his comfort zone and helped him grow.

Malachi also appreciates the many opportunities he had to build his teaching skills and network with amazing people. Each experience furthered his knowledge and experience and prepared him for his teaching career in the area.

He tells new students to “get involved with any organization on campus so you grow as a person.”

Mystina Vogel

Interdisciplinary Studies | Reidville, SC

Mystina Vogel began her college journey 31 years ago, but her excitement at fulfilling her goal is undiminished by time. Thanks to the Re:Degree program, she has not only pursued her interest in business and law but also plans to attend law school.

Her experience at Upstate has restored her confidence after it was shaken by a painful setback. In 2007, while juggling part-time school, full-time work, a three-hour daily commute, and parenting a 6-year-old, a difficult personal situation disrupted her coursework. One professor failed her, spoiling the 4.0 GPA she had maintained and leaving her wary of returning to school for years.

After rebuilding her life in South Carolina and recognizing her resilience, Mystina enrolled at Upstate in April 2025. Her first class was philosophy of law with instructor Ben McCraw, whose immediate willingness to support students reassured her she was exactly where she belonged. Re:Degree advisor Debbie Little has also been a steadfast advocate, helping Mystina see the finish line and supporting her law school plans.

To anyone contemplating a return to school, Mystina offers this: “It doesn’t matter how fast you move forward — only that you start and keep progressing. Upstate showed me that the path is possible at any stage of life. Commit to yourself, your future, and the lives you impact.”

Akya Watson

Nursing | Edgefield, SC

For Akya Watson, college has been a time of personal and professional growth. She points to two experiences as especially formative. Becoming a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority helped instill discipline and drive while she navigated the rigors of nursing school. Equally meaningful was the support of her nursing instructors, whose guidance and dedication she credits as instrumental in shaping the nurse she is becoming.

Akya’s post-graduation plans include taking the NCLEX and starting her career as an ICU nurse. Upstate’s senior leadership course was one of the many opportunities that prepared her for these goals, giving her and her peers the confidence and training needed to succeed on the exam and in the workforce.

Through mentorship, practice interviews, and the constant encouragement of her professors, she also learned the importance of continuing to learn and grow in her career.

Her advice to students just beginning their journey? “College is truly what you make of it. Take advantage of every opportunity, use the resources available to you, and stay focused on your goals. Don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone — that’s where growth happens.”

Mikaela Way

Psychology | Charleston, SC

Mentorship has played a key part in Mikaela Way’s Upstate experience. While working with professor Lisa Johnson and associate professor Jason Hannay, Mikaela discovered new interests that have shaped her studies and post-graduation plans. She is minoring in women’s and gender studies, sociology and biology, and plans to pursue a dual master’s degree in women’s and gender studies and experimental psychology.

Johnson sparked a passion for women’s and gender studies Mikaela didn’t know she had. An invitation to the WGS Consortium at the College of Charleston pushed her out of her comfort zone and introduced her to inspiring scholars, leading her to research land disputes and food insecurity among Gullah Geechee women — work she recently presented at the WGS South conference.

Hannay’s mentorship was equally transformative. By encouraging her to conduct independent research and present at the USC Upstate Research Symposium, he helped her discover a genuine love for research and helped her envision a future in academia — something she hadn’t considered before.

That guidance, along with hands-on research and presenting experience, has given Mikaela both important skills and a strong sense of career purpose.

Her advice to incoming students: “Don’t be afraid to throw yourself into the deep end and try things outside your comfort zone. Presenting for the first time can feel nerve-wracking, but it is always worth it. The moments that scare you a little are usually the ones that help you grow the most.”

Hashim Zain

Chemistry | Islamabad, Pakistan

Mentorship has meaningfully shaped Hashim Zain’s time at Upstate. His roles as a Chancellor Ambassador and member of Phi Beta Sigma fraternity frequently brought him into contact with Chancellor Bennie Harris, who became a trusted mentor. From Harris, Hashim learned the importance of carrying himself with poise, integrity and professionalism in every aspect of life and how to lead with confidence while valuing others’ perspectives.

Harris also offered guidance during some of the more challenging moments of Hashim’s college journey. Growing up, Hashim was raised in an environment where there was little room for error and failure often felt final, not formative.

There were many moments in his chemistry studies when things did not go as planned and he felt discouraged. But Harris instilled in Hashim the resilience and perseverance needed to grow from adversity.

Gradually Hashim learned that falling short of a desired result is not the end but part of the process. His four years taught him to reflect on his failures, grow from them and approach challenges with a renewed sense of purpose. These lessons have prepared him for his next step, which is to work in the chemical industry for a few years before returning to school to pursue a career in oral and maxillofacial surgery.

Given his experiences, his advice to new students is, “Nothing good ever comes easy; if it comes easy, it’s seldom good.”