Upper Room Theological University (URTU) successfully hosted its Class of MMXXVI (2026) Commencement & Gala Weekend, a three-day celebration dedicated to recognizing academic achievement, distinguished leadership, and community service. Taking place in New York City from August 7-9, 2026, the event brought together graduates, university leaders, honorary degree recipients, and community members under the theme “Honoring Excellence. Celebrating Legacy. Impacting Generations.”
Designed to celebrate individuals whose contributions have created meaningful impact, the annual gathering reflected URTU’s mission of honoring scholarship, leadership, faith, and service while inspiring future generations.
A Weekend Dedicated to Scholarship, Leadership, and Purpose
This year’s Commencement & Gala Weekend featured a series of signature events that combined celebration, recognition, and fellowship.
The festivities began on Friday, August 7, with the Majestic Princess Cruise, giving guests the chance to spend an evening aboard the Majestic Princess NYC Yacht as it traveled around Manhattan. The opening event welcomed graduates, honorees, university leadership, and invited guests before the formal commencement ceremony.
On Saturday, August 8, the university hosted its Black-Tie MMXXVI (2026) Commencement & Gala at Astoria World Manor in Astoria, New York. Beginning at 6:30 p.m., the gala celebrated the graduating class’s accomplishments while recognizing distinguished individuals whose professional achievements and community service exemplify leadership and excellence.
The weekend concluded on Sunday, August 9, with URTU Morning Worship at Allen AME Cathedral Church in Jamaica, New York. The service gave graduates, faculty, supporters, and guests an opportunity to gather in reflection and thanksgiving as the commencement weekend came to a close.
Honoring Outstanding Leaders
A central highlight of the 2026 gala was the university’s commitment to recognizing individuals whose work has made a lasting difference within their professions and communities.
Among this year’s distinguished honorees was Dr. Bernard Bronner, who was conferred both a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) and a Doctor of Letters (Honoris Causa – Litt.D.). The dual honorary recognition celebrated his outstanding leadership, entrepreneurial excellence, and transformational contributions to business and community development.
By recognizing accomplished leaders across multiple fields, Upper Room Theological University continues its tradition of celebrating those whose influence extends beyond personal success to create opportunities and inspire positive change.
Celebrating Community Impact
The 2026 Commencement & Gala was more than an academic ceremony. It celebrated individuals whose dedication, compassion, and commitment have strengthened their communities.
Throughout the weekend, URTU recognized leaders who embody vision, integrity, and service while encouraging graduates to pursue careers grounded in purpose, ethical leadership, and lifelong learning.
The university’s emphasis on honoring community impact reflects its belief that education should prepare individuals for professional achievement and meaningful service to others.
Leadership Supporting the Celebration
The weekend featured participation from Dr. Tara Merchant, who serves on the Board of Trustees, leads the university’s legal team, and serves as Legal Advisor and Nominator.
Her involvement reflects the collaborative leadership behind URTU’s commencement activities and its ongoing commitment to recognizing excellence across education, ministry, business, and public service.
Strengthening a Legacy of Excellence
Each year, Upper Room Theological University brings together graduates, faculty, community leaders, and distinguished guests to celebrate achievement while reinforcing the values that define the institution.
The university’s guiding theme, “Honoring Excellence. Celebrating Legacy. Impacting Generations,” reflects its vision of preparing leaders whose influence extends well beyond the classroom.
As the Class of MMXXVI graduated, the 2026 Commencement & Gala Weekend represented an opportunity to celebrate academic success while recognizing individuals whose lives demonstrate leadership, innovation, compassion, and lasting community impact.
About Upper Room Theological University
Upper Room Theological University (URTU) is headquartered in Fayetteville, North Carolina, and is dedicated to providing faith-centered higher education while recognizing excellence in scholarship, leadership, ministry, entrepreneurship, and public service.
Through its commencement ceremonies, honorary degree program, and community engagement initiatives, URTU continues to celebrate individuals whose achievements inspire future generations to lead with purpose, integrity, and service.
For more information about the 2026 New York City Commencement & Gala Weekend, visit https://urtuinc.net, email urts.office@gmail.com, or call (888) 859-3594.
