CFK graduates Spring Class of 2026 in the College鈥檚 72nd Commencement Ceremony
KEY WEST, FL, May 12, 2026— 最新麻豆视频 (CFK) marked a landmark moment in its history Friday, May 8, when it held its 72nd Commencement. For the first time in the College’s history, two ceremonies were needed to honor more than 150 graduates in CFK’s spring class of 2026. The celebrations, held at the Tennessee Williams Theatre on CFK’s Key West Campus, coincided with two notable anniversaries: CFK’s 60th year and the 250th anniversary of the United States.
Student Voices
Jessica Rojas, who earned her Bachelor of Applied Science in Supervision and Management, delivered the student address at the morning ceremony. Araceli Dominguez, who received her Associate in Science in Nursing, spoke at the afternoon ceremony.
Yesenia Bathelmy, who earned her Associate in Science in Nursing, performed the national anthem at both ceremonies.
2026 Distinguished Alumnus
Dr. Christina Belotti, who earned her Associate in Arts from CFK in 2004, was named the 2026 Distinguished Alumnus and addressed graduates at both ceremonies. An educator for nearly 20 years, Dr. Belotti has served the Keys’ community teaching at Sugarloaf School and Marathon Middle High School. Outside the classroom, she supports the MHS Student Government Association, Take Stock in Children, and Champions for Change, and serves on the board of the Educational Coalition for Monroe County.
Keynote Address
Tim Stockwell, “Papa 2025” of the Hemingway Look-Alike Society, delivered the keynote address at both ceremonies. Mr. Stockwell is active in the Keys’ community and serves as Vice President of the Board of Directors for Sloppy Joe’s Foundation. He and his fellow Papas and Mamas work tirelessly to support CFK. For nearly 27 years, they have supported the educational dreams of over 300 CFK students with over $250,000 in scholarships. The Hemingway Look-Alike Society now has the largest endowment at CFK, at $750,000.
Honoring Our Nurses
CFK Nursing instructor Laura Cox pinned nursing graduates and Interim Dean of Nursing, Arts, Science, and Hospitality Michelle Fortney led graduates in the Florence Nightingale Nursing Oath, a time-honored tradition marking their entry into the profession. Upon passing the NCLEX-RN national licensure exam, each will become a registered nurse. CFK’s NCLEX-RN pass rate consistently ranks well above state and national averages.
2026 Instructor of the Year – It’s a Tie!
Nursing instructors Laura Cox and Michelle Ho were both awarded CFK’s Instructor of the Year. At the end of each semester, the students vote for an outstanding professor to be recognized at graduation.
A Class Full of Stories
The Class of 2026 reflected the notable range of students CFK serves. Among the graduates were six students from the Project ACCESS program for students with intellectual disabilities, and one alumnus of the program who returned to complete a Bachelor of Applied Science in Supervision and Management. Thirteen Dual Enrollment students from Monroe County high schools received associate degrees and/or certificates. The class also included siblings who earned their Associate in Science in Nursing simultaneously, and two international students who completed their degrees.
Honoring CFK’s Pioneers
In recognition of CFK’s 60th anniversary, two alumni among the College’s earliest graduates received honorary degrees:
- Joey Garcia, who earned his Associate in Arts in 1967, was awarded an honorary Bachelor of Applied Science in Supervision and Management.
The full commencement ceremony can be viewed on the College’s Facebook page at .
CFK’s summer semester begins May 18. Information about academic programs, steps to become a student, and ways to pay for college can be viewed on the College’s website at CFK.edu/FutureStudents.
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