“Odyssey opened my mind, strengthened my confidence, and reminded me that it is never too late to grow, learn, and start a new chapter,” said Jackie (pictured left) of this year’s graduating class. This growth was evident as 29 students shared powerful words and inspirational experiences at the podium at the UW Memorial Union on April 29. Incoming Interim Chancellor Eric Wilcots congratulated the students, and they were also cheered on by families, friends, supporters, and Bucky Badger.
Students challenged themselves reading college-level texts, writing passionate editorials, and representing themselves in mixed-media self-portraits. Odyssey’s Class of 2026 became the 23rd cohort to complete UW’s life-changing jump-start course in the humanities, and their six credits were hard earned. Students persevered through life’s challenges to make it to graduation, and graduates included a father successfully returning from rehab, a brand-new mother with a week-old baby in tow, and a student bravely crossing the stage after being released from the ICU.
Interim Chancellor Eric Wilcots praised students’ success and told them that to him, Odyssey embodies the Wisconsin Idea. Before each student came to the podium, the 2026 Friend of the Odyssey Project Award was bestowed on a mother/son duo, Martin Rouse and Mary Rouse. Read more about these Odyssey champions in a feature written about them here.
Another alum, Hedi Rudd, took photos at the ceremony. The photo at the left shows Cquemiah receiving her certificate from Professors Emily Auerbach and Kevin Mullen. Cquemiah’s speech at the podium was inspirational: “Odyssey has helped me grow, find my courage, and see what I am capable of. I found the courage I didn’t know I had. I found success, I found my voice, and most importantly, I found myself. I carry your encouragement with me as I continue to chase my dreams and create a better future for myself and my daughter.”
Bucky Badger posing with families, the sounds of piano played by Emily Auerbach’s 97-year-old father, recognition from classmates and community, and refreshments brought joy as supporters celebrated the success of Odyssey’s Class of 2026. Read and watch news coverage of the event, read our Graduation Oracle introducing all 30 of our students, and view a full recording of our 2026 ceremony below.
Special thanks to our graduation sponsors, including Madison Gas & Electric, Strand Associates, UW Credit Union, Custer Burish Financial Services, Summit Credit Union, and TruStage Financial Group.
Interview with Leigh Mills on WMTV15
Class of 2026 Graduation Oracle
“Odyssey is a ladder for all who are accepted. Once you find the courage to climb, every step is earned. Your hands may get shaky, your legs might get tired, but you keep climbing. With each step, you rise higher, leaving behind that past you once were stuck in that tried to hold you back, getting closer to a version of yourself you never thought you could become or reach.” Shakila, Class of 2026