PVCC to Hold 53rd Commencement Exercises May 11 at John Paul Jones Arena

Charlottesville, Va. – May 7, 2026 – Piedmont Virginia Community College will hold its 53^rd Commencement Exercises Monday, May 11, 2026, at 6:00 p.m., at the John Paul Jones Arena (JPJ Arena) in Charlottesville. Graduating students representing programs across the College will share their PVCC stories as speakers for the event.

Health Sciences program pinnings will also be held at JPJ Arena. The Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Radiography, Sonography and Surgical Technology Program pinning ceremonies will be at 9 a.m., followed by the Nursing Program pinning ceremony at 1 p.m.

“Commencement is a powerful reminder of what is possible through opportunity, determination, and support. Our graduates’ achievements speak to the transformative power of education and the promise and potential within every student to shape their future and contribute meaningfully to their communities,” shared PVCC President Dr. Jean Runyon.

The PVCC Class of 2026 includes students earning an associate degree, early college scholars (high school students earning a college degree or certificate), graduates of adult learning programs offered by TJACE@PVCC, graduates of the PVCC Higher Education in Prison Program and students earning credentials through PVCC Workforce Development programs.

An estimated 850 students will graduate with at least one degree, certificate, or career studies certificate for the 2025-2026 academic year. Some students earn more than one credential, resulting in an estimated 948 degrees, certificates and career studies certificates awarded for the academic year.

For additional information on PVCC celebrations, pinnings, and commencement exercises, visit pvcc.edu/commencement2026.

About Piedmont Virginia Community College
Established in 1972, Piedmont Virginia Community College is a nonresidential two-year institution of higher education that serves Central Virginia – principally, residents of the City of Charlottesville and the counties of Albemarle, Buckingham, Fluvanna, Greene, Louisa, and Nelson. PVCC is one of 23 community colleges in Virginia that comprise the Virginia Community College System. PVCC is committed to providing access to a college education for all who can benefit, an opportunity for each student to reach their potential and excellence in all programs and services. Visit pvcc.edu.

PVCC does not discriminate based on age, color, disability, family medical history or genetic information, military service, national origin, parental status, political affiliation, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), sexual orientation or any other non-merit-based factor. Visit pvcc.edu/nondiscrimination to learn more.