Kankakee, Illinois – More than 250 students will receive degrees and certificates during Kankakee Community College’s 57th annual commencement ceremony on May 16, 2026, Saturday, at the George H. Ryan Gymnasium in the college’s Activities Building.
According to Kankakee Community College, the ceremony will begin at 10 a.m. and is expected to last about 90 minutes, with overflow rooms via livestream for guests as seating reaches capacity.
The keynote speaker will be Ellen Bollino, vice president and chief nursing officer at Riverside Healthcare. A 2001 graduate of KCC’s nursing program, Bollino has built a career in healthcare leadership across the Kankakee County region and the greater Chicago metro area. She also holds advanced nursing degrees from Olivet Nazarene University and maintains certification as a Certified Emergency Nurse.
Three students—Kendahl Carlson, Zachary Fox, and Braden Gibson—will be recognized as members of the All-Illinois Academic Team for their academic excellence and community service. Carlson and Gibson plan to transfer to Illinois State University, while Fox will continue in KCC’s manufacturing technology program.
Faculty honors will be awarded to psychology professor Cari Stevenson and instructor Tishauna Thigpen. Stevenson becomes the first faculty member in KCC history to receive the top full-time faculty honor twice.
The John M. Fulton Distinguished Alumni Award will be presented to John Keigher, a 1986 graduate whose career spans multiple industries, including transportation and manufacturing. He remains active in mentoring local entrepreneurs through the Kankakee County CEO Program.
Tickets are required for entry, and guests are encouraged to avoid bringing large items that may obstruct views.
The ceremony will stream live online, with attendees invited to share messages using #KCCgrad2026.
