Morehouse College

“I’ll tell you who they are. These are no longer men of Morehouse. These are Morehouse Men!”

Inside a packed Martin Luther King Jr. International Chapel, the Class of 2026 gathered for one final spiritual charge before as Rev. Dr. Winford K. Rice Jr. ’14 delivered an electrifying address that moved graduates, families, alumni, and friends alike.

With a message centered on perseverance, Dr. Rice reminded the graduating class that despite every obstacle, setback, challenge, or moment of uncertainty they encountered along the way, they still found a way forward. His words served as both a celebration of their resilience and a call to continue walking boldly in purpose, faith, and service.

In a senior sign-off message, we asked to share their final reflection as undergraduate students. One journey has ended as the next begins, and we couldn’t be more proud of our new Morehouse Men! 🙆🏽‍♂️🔥

As soon as they walked across the stage, we asked our graduates how they would describe the Commencement energy, and this is what they had to say! 🙆🏽‍♂️❤️

How would you describe ?

Morehouse College will welcome 12-time NBA All-Star, two-time Olympian, philanthropist, and entrepreneur Chris Paul as its keynote speaker for the 142nd Morehouse College Commencement exercises on Sunday, May 17, 2026, at 9 a.m. on the College's Century Campus. Paul will also receive an honorary doctorate of humane letters from the institution, alongside two exemplary individuals whose lives reflect a legacy of stewardship, ethical leadership, public service, and societal impact: the chairman, president, and CEO of Southern Company Chris Womack, and the founding dean of the Martin Luther King Jr. International Chapel, the Rev. Dr. Lawrence Edward Carter Sr., set to retire this summer after 47 years of consecutive service to the College.

🎓🏠 Unapologetic Excellence: Johnny Simmons ’26

Johnny Simmons ’26 is a senior education studies major with double minors in leadership and history from Apopka, Florida.

A mentor, servant leader, and culture bearer, Johnny has played a pivotal role in shaping the first-year experience at Morehouse College through his leadership as a New Student Orientation (NSO) Commander. At Morehouse, NSO is more than an introduction to campus; it is a transformative rite of passage designed to immerse students in the traditions, brotherhood, and expectations of becoming Men of Morehouse.

Through his leadership, Johnny has helped guide incoming students through one of the College’s most defining experiences, fostering accountability, fellowship, and personal growth. His commitment to service also extends through his work with Morehouse’s “Get on the Bus Initiative,” helping strengthen civic engagement and community impact beyond the campus gates.

As he prepares for graduation, Johnny’s legacy reflects the power of leadership rooted in mentorship, purpose, and brotherhood.

🎓🏠 Unapologetic Excellence: Elijah Pinckney ’26

Elijah Pinckney ’26 is a journalism and business administration double major from Prince George’s County, Maryland.

A standout scholar-athlete and trailblazer on and off the field, Elijah has cemented his legacy at Morehouse College through excellence in academics, athletics, and leadership. As the starting shortstop for the Maroon Tigers, he has become one of the most accomplished players in program history, recently making history with the retirement of his jersey, an honor that reflects his lasting impact on Morehouse Baseball.

Elijah also broke new ground nationally as the first NCAA Division II baseball player selected to participate in the HBCU Swingman Classic, a historic showcase co-founded by Ken Griffey Jr., highlighting the top HBCU baseball talent in the country.

Whether reporting stories in the classroom or making history on the diamond, Elijah’s journey embodies discipline, determination, and the pursuit of excellence that defines the House.

🎓🏠 Unapologetic Excellence: Wamiek Green ’26

Wamiek Green ’26 is a senior communications major with a minor in business administration from Brooklyn, New York.

A connector, communicator, and campus leader, Wamiek has made a meaningful impact on the Morehouse College community through his dedication to student engagement and brotherhood. As President of the New York Club, he has helped cultivate community among students from across the state while creating spaces that celebrate culture, fellowship, and connection.

His leadership extends across campus through his role as Vice President of the Pre-Alumni Association, where he has worked to strengthen relationships between current students and the broader Morehouse alumni network. Through each role, Wamiek has demonstrated a commitment to service, collaboration, and preserving the traditions that make the House unique.

As he prepares for graduation, Wamiek’s journey reflects the power of leadership rooted in community, communication, and intentional impact.

🎓🏠 Unapologetic Excellence: Kenny Ugo ’26

Kenny Ugo ’26 is a senior business administration major with a concentration in accounting from Houston, Texas.

A strategic thinker and dedicated servant leader, Kenny has left a lasting impact on the Morehouse College community through his leadership as the 94th Student Government Association President. Throughout his tenure, he has worked to strengthen student engagement, advocate for the needs of his peers, and help cultivate a campus environment rooted in excellence and accountability.

Kenny’s leadership style reflects both professionalism and purpose, balancing academic rigor with a commitment to service and collaboration. His work across campus has positioned him as a trusted voice among students and administrators alike, helping to advance conversations that shape the student experience at Morehouse.

As he prepares for graduation, Kenny’s journey stands as a reflection of principled leadership, discipline, and the enduring impact of service-driven leadership at the House.

Morehouse College | Baccalaureate 2026

Join President Bowman in Bank of America Auditorium today at 12 noon for a candid conversation with Chris Paul
ahead of his commencement address tomorrow!

As a part of the "Principled Leadership in Action" presidential speaker series, this event offers an intimate, interpersonal experience where Dr. Bowman will delve into questions about Chris' principles on faith, family, leadership, entrepreneurship, and his deep commitment to HBCUs. An audience Q&A will follow, so you do not want to miss out!

RSVP and we look forward to seeing you at 12 p.m.!

https://morehousecollege.formstack.com/forms/principled_leadership_in_action_rsvp

🎓🏠 Unapologetic Excellence: Ikhwan Calib James ’26

Ikhwan Calib James ’26 is an education studies major with a minor in Chinese studies on the pre-law track from Silver Spring, Maryland.

A scholar, servant leader, and global thinker, Ikhwan has distinguished himself through academic excellence and leadership across the Morehouse College community. As a Presidential Ambassador, he has represented the College at major institutional events and engagements, embodying the professionalism, scholarship, and brotherhood that define the House.

Ikhwan is also a MARCH Scholar, participating in Morehouse’s policy and advocacy program designed to prepare students for leadership in government, public policy, and civic engagement. Through the program, he has explored the intersection of leadership, legislation, and social impact while strengthening his commitment to justice-centered work.
As he prepares for the next chapter, Ikhwan’s journey reflects intellectual curiosity, cultural awareness, and a dedication to leading with purpose.

🎓🏠 Unapologetic Excellence: Ian Jackson ’26

Ian Jackson ’26 is a Finance major from Nashville, Tennessee.
An entrepreneur, visionary, and determined leader, Ian’s journey through Morehouse College has been anything but traditional. Originally beginning his collegiate path at Morehouse in 2014, Ian made the difficult decision to step away from the College to pursue his entrepreneurial ambitions and expand his creative pursuits.

During that time, he founded Ordinary Odds, a footwear brand rooted in individuality, creativity, and self-expression. But even while building his business, the House remained close to his heart. Following a meaningful conversation with his mother, Ian made the decision to return to Morehouse and complete the journey he started more than a decade ago.
His story reflects resilience, growth, and the understanding that purpose does not always follow a straight path. As he approaches graduation, Ian represents the spirit of persistence and possibility that defines the Men of Morehouse.

🎓🏠 Unapologetic Excellence: Stoney McKnight C’26

Stoney McKnight C’26 is a senior Women's Health Scholar and a pre-med student at Spelman College, and serves as the 89th Miss Maroon & White at Morehouse College.

A poised and purpose-driven leader, Stoney has made a lasting impact across the SpelHouse community through her commitment to service, scholarship, and representation. As Miss Maroon & White, she has carried forward a legacy rooted in excellence by serving as a bridge between institutions while uplifting the values of leadership, sisterhood, and collaboration.

Her presence on campus reflects both grace and intentionality, as she continues to champion initiatives that support student engagement and community building. Through her leadership, Stoney embodies the spirit of Spelman and the enduring partnership that defines SpelHouse. In the fall of 2025, Stoney McKnight was selected as the 40th Miss NBCA Hall of Fame by the National Black College Alumni Hall of Fame Foundation, Inc.

To watch the full interview, click the link below: https://youtu.be/oenIzA6JOAI

🎓🏠 Unapologetic Excellence: Jamarrea Anderson ’26

Jamarrea Anderson ’26 is a senior psychology major with a minor in education studies from Jackson, Tennessee.

Driven by a commitment to leadership, innovation, and impact, Jamarrea has built a reputation as a forward-thinking student dedicated to creating opportunities for himself and others. His time at Morehouse College reflects a balance of academic focus and professional development, positioning him for success beyond the House.

Throughout his collegiate journey, Jamarrea has engaged in experiences that sharpen his business acumen and expand his perspective on entrepreneurship and leadership. In the spring of 2025, Jamarrea was elected to serve as the inaugural Mister Morehouse College.

Whether in the classroom or through hands-on opportunities, he has remained committed to growth, excellence, and preparation for the next chapter.

To watch the full interview, click the link below:
https://youtu.be/9Gee1Ky3ORU

The brought the campus together for a powerful showcase of student excellence across scholarship, creativity, and innovation. From dynamic student presentations and entrepreneurial showcases to lightning talks and alumni-led conversations, the summit highlighted the depth of thought and vision emerging from the Men of Morehouse.

Throughout the day, students presented research spanning STEM, business, humanities, and the arts while engaging peers, faculty, and industry leaders in meaningful dialogue about the future.

At Morehouse, innovation is not just imagined; it is realized, shared, and elevated.