Nassau Community College Celebrates 66th Commencement

 

Garden City, NY — Nassau Community College (NCC) is proud to celebrate a successful 66th Commencement Ceremony. During the event on May 20, 2026, at Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, nearly 1,000 students attended and walked in their regalia in recognition of their achievements.

During the program, Daniel “Rudy” Ruettiger, best known as the inspiration behind the iconic film Rudy and his enduring legacy with University of Notre Dame football, served as the keynote speaker for its 2026 Commencement Ceremony. Ruettiger addressed graduates, families, faculty, and staff in celebration of this milestone achievement.

Ruettiger’s story is one of perseverance, determination, and the power of resilience. After initially being denied admission to the University of Notre Dame, he enrolled at Holy Cross Junior College, where he committed himself to improving academically and proving that he belonged. Through discipline, persistence, and an unwavering belief in his goals, he ultimately earned admission to Notre Dame, achieving what once seemed out of reach. His journey underscores the transformative role that community and junior colleges play in opening doors and creating pathways to opportunity.

That experience closely mirrors the journeys of so many Nassau Community College students. Like Ruettiger, NCC students often begin their academic careers with ambition and determination, using the College as a springboard to four-year institutions, meaningful careers, and lifelong success. His story reflects the same resilience and commitment that define the NCC community, where hard work, second chances, and perseverance can lead to extraordinary outcomes.

Ruettiger’s journey was immortalized in the 1993 film Rudy, and he has since become a nationally recognized motivational speaker, author, and advocate for overcoming adversity. Despite significant academic and athletic challenges, he achieved his dream of attending and playing football for the University of Notre Dame, culminating in a memorable moment on the field that has inspired millions. Through his work, Ruettiger continues to encourage audiences to pursue their goals with grit and unwavering belief in themselves.

Nassau Community College’s 2026 Commencement Ceremony celebrated the accomplishments of its graduating class as they transition to the next chapter of their academic and professional journeys. Held at the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, the ceremony brought together the College community to honor student success, recognize academic excellence, and reflect on the transformative impact of higher education. Ruettiger’s keynote address served as a powerful reminder of the perseverance and dedication that define the NCC student experience.

About Nassau Community College
Nassau Community College (NCC), a campus of the State University of New York (SUNY), provides a comprehensive public college experience designed to prepare students to start, and continue, their successful journeys through higher education. Serving more than 17,000 full-time and part-time students annually, NCC offers 70 degree and certificate programs. Through on-campus and online offerings, the College educates local and international students and boasts more than 164,000 alumni. Situated on 225 acres in Garden City, Long Island, NCC is located in historic Nassau County, one of the most desirable locations to live in the United States and an epicenter for business and careers. Since 1959, the College has earned a nationwide reputation for academic excellence, affordability, and ease of transferability to four-year schools. 

Media Contact:  Brett Spielberg | brett.spielberg@ncc.edu | (516) 572.9634