Seniors, What Will You Miss?
Story By: Mya Ehresman ’26
June 15, 2026
Commencement 2026 took place Saturday, May 16. In the days leading up to the ceremony, members of the Class of 2026 shared what they’ll miss most from their time at Central College.
“I will miss the people and the connections I’ve made throughout my years at Central.” — Olivia Bohlen
“What I’ll miss most about being a student at Central is the atmosphere of achievement, support and empathy created by the faculty and staff. Every step of the way, I felt like I found a new mentor in each person I met. From the beginning, my advisor Stephen Fyfe ’87 worked closely with me to figure out how I could manage my time working and taking classes as a transfer student. The people I met and the relationships I made through Flying Pans, working on campus and taking core courses have been incredibly supportive, and continue to motivate me in all that I do.” — Andrew Cottington
“I will miss my professors’ intentionality and kindness. At a smaller college like Central, I feel blessed; I am grateful for the faculty who call me by name and offer generous support and wisdom. I believe the connections made here made me a better person and prepared me to convey the same intention and kindness to people I encounter post-undergraduate school.” — Sophia Fritz
“I think the thing I will miss most about Central is the community and the one-on-one aspect. You really are not just a number at Central.” — Kaylee Grant
“All of the little joys that happen throughout the day. Grabbing a coffee with my friends at the Global Café at Geisler, good mornings with my professors, sunset watching at the soccer field, the red picnic tables around the pond, the pretty tulips and baby geese.” — Ashli Harn
“I’ll miss hanging out with all my friends.” — Hayden Hearne
“I will miss the welcoming campus and community I’ve found at Central College!” — Parker Lawrence
“I’m so thankful for these past four years at Central! I will miss my best friends, taking part in amazing experiences like mission trips overseas, the hands-on kinesiology classes and excellent professors. Central and Pella will always hold a special place in my heart!” — Holly Mattes
“I’ll miss the Central community and the ability to walk everywhere! Being able to make plans with friends in the moment and on the fly since we live so close together is at the top of my list, too. I’ll also miss my daily ‘cool beans coffee’ from the café!” — Anna Miller
“What I will miss most about Central is living down the hall from my friends, feeling like I’m living in an episode of ‘Friends.’” — Sarah Rochholz
“I will miss the community. I have made so many incredible memories with so many different groups of people because this campus and these people foster awesome relationships and have allowed me to make mistakes and grow from them!” — Nathan Smith
Thank you, Class of 2026. While your time on this campus has come to an end, you will always be Forever Dutch®.
You have accomplished great things in your four years at 812 University St. We can’t wait to cheer you on in whatever comes next and wish you all the best as you begin this new chapter. Share your updates and your news will be included in the Class Notes section of Dutchology. It’s easy! Just fill out the form at dutchology.central.edu/newsnotes.
Congratulations!