Two ceremonies were held at the Florida State Fairgrounds Expo Hall, with just under 600 master’s, doctoral and Educational Specialist degrees conferred in the morning and almost 875 associate and bachelor’s degrees awarded in the afternoon.

Saint Leo University President Jim Burkee presided over the ceremonies, his first commencement at the university, and recognized the achievements of the graduating class.

“Class of 2026, go forward with the courage of your convictions. The world needs your talents, your energy, your idealism, and your hope,” Burkee said. “The world needs more Leos.”

Class Overview

Almost 70% of graduates in the Saint Leo Class of 2026 were Florida residents, while just under 30% came from out of state, representing 47 states and 21 countries. More than 17% of the class was military-affiliated, including nearly 80 active-duty service members.

A total of 102 graduates earned a 4.0 GPA. The average GPA was 3.42 for undergraduates and 3.72 for graduate students, with popular programs including computer science, criminal justice, psychology, cybersecurity, education, and data analytics.

Commencement Speakers and Honorary Degree Recipients

Florida Lt. Gov. Jay Collins delivered the morning commencement address to graduate-level candidates, reflecting on his transition from military to civilian life and the values that guided him.

“I learned that leadership doesn’t disappear when the environment changes, it adapts. And that service doesn’t end when one chapter closes, it simply takes a different form,” Collins said. “Let your success be measured by the lives you improve. Step forward with purpose.”

Tech entrepreneur and philanthropist Arnie Bellini addressed undergraduate candidates during the afternoon ceremony, offering lessons from his career to support their continued success.

“The most important thing my degree gave me was not what I majored in. It taught me how to learn,” Bellini said. “In a world changing as rapidly as ours, that may be the single most valuable skill you can have.”

The university also awarded honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degrees to entrepreneur William A. Pope and Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson.

“One of the things I will remember for the rest of my life is sharing this day with you,” Pope said.

About Saint Leo University:

Founded in 1889, Saint Leo University is a leading Catholic Benedictine institution serving learners of all backgrounds and ages with a commitment to excellence, community, and respect. The nonprofit university is known for providing a values-based education in the liberal arts tradition and a community of belonging for those who seek a greater purpose in life. Saint Leo University is regionally accredited and offers a campus in the Tampa Bay area of Florida, regional education centers, and online programs. Learn more at saintleo.edu.