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The Warrior Wire- Summer 2026

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Webber International University Concludes 99th Academic Year with Commencement Ceremony
 
Babson Park, FL (May 2, 2026) — Webber International University marked its 99th Commencement Ceremony on May 1 in the Sabbagh Athletic Center on the University’s campus.
Mr. Royce Brown, President and Chief Executive Officer of AdventHealth Lake Wales, graciously accepted the invitation to serve as Webber’s 99th Commencement Speaker. Mr. Brown delivered a moving address highlighting the many opportunities now available to graduates as a result of their diligent academic accomplishments.
During the ceremony, the University conferred upon Mr. Brown the honorary degree of Doctor of Business Administration, honoris causa.
Webber President and Chief Executive Officer Dr. Nelson Marquez shared his enthusiasm for the occasion, stating, “By far, the very best thing about being a university president is commencement day.”
Dr. Marquez continued, “This year’s commencement theme, Forging New Paths, is especially fitting, not only given the changes occurring in higher education, but more importantly because of the new opportunities awaiting our graduates.”
Webber’s Dean of Academics, Dr. Nichole Murray, presented awards for Most Improved Student and Highest Grade Point Average (GPA). The Highest GPA Award was presented to two graduates, each achieving a perfect 4.0 GPA.
Summer Zier‑Norris received the Most Improved Student Award. She is a member of the Webber Softball team and earned a degree in Sport Business Management.
The first recipient of the Highest GPA Award was Esabella Diaz, a Sports Performance, Health, and Fitness major and a member of the women’s soccer team. The second recipient was Gian Fink, a Psychology major and a member of the men’s soccer team.
Webber International University’s current student body includes more than 712 students representing most U.S. states and over 41 foreign countries. Twenty nations were represented among the graduates participating in the 99th Commencement Ceremony.
 
 

A message from the Office of the President Webber International University
 
At Webber International University, our strength has always been rooted in the generations of students and alumni who believe in our mission. Thank you for being an important part of that legacy.

As we prepare for the upcoming academic year, I’m encouraged to share that Fall 2026 enrollment is showing strong early momentum:
•    550 new students admitted
•    198 deposits received
•    81 students already registered

These indicators reflect growing confidence in Webber and position us for continued growth. At the same time, the summer months remain a critical period for ensuring we sustain this progress and fully prepare for our incoming students.

Today, I ask for your support of our Bridging Generations initiative—an effort to strengthen the university during this pivotal time.

Your investment helps us bridge the past, present, and future of Webber:
•    Supporting current students as they persist toward graduation
•    Sustaining essential programs and services during the summer
•    Preparing to welcome the next generation of Webber students

Your gift—of any size—has an immediate and lasting impact. It helps us provide scholarships, enhance academic programs, and ensure our students have the support they need to succeed. I invite you to join me in making a commitment to Webber today and to continue the proud tradition of alumni investing in the future of this institution.
Help Bridge the Gap Today

Thank you for your continued belief in Webber International University. Together, we have the opportunity to transform lives and strengthen Webber for generations to come. I hope you will stand with us—and invest in that future today.

With appreciation,
Nelson Marquez, EdD
President/CEO
 





Join us for our first major Centennial Celebration of the year on October 9th and 10th.
October 9th - Yentes Center- 5:30 pm - 8:30 pm
Alumni Social (ticketed) + Generations of Greatness
Now is your chance to vote for the greatest sports teams in Webber's history, with the winner being announced at the Alumni Social.
Vote here: VOTE TODAY!
October 10th
FREE Alumni Tailgate 11:30 am - 1:30 pm
Webber Football vs. Ave Maria 1:30 pm
You dont want to miss this historic weekend of reconnecting, celebrating, and cheering on the Warriors!
Learn more & Register here: Alumni Weekend 2026

 

Grant Awarded to Webber International University by GiveWell Community Foundation
 
Babson Park, FL. (April 10, 2026)- Webber International University has been awarded a $10,000 Impact Polk grant from the Leland Bryan Fund within GiveWell Community Foundation to support its Skilled Workforce Training Scholarship Program.
This funding expands access to short‑term certificate programs and accredited bachelor’s degrees in healthcare and information technology, including a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and The Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy Assistant (BSOTA), with a Minor in Health Services Administration (HSA). These programs prepare graduates for high‑demand, high‑wage careers that are critical to meeting Polk County’s current and future workforce needs.
Since 2023, the Community Foundation’s Impact Polk Grant has helped more than 15 students reduce financial barriers, remain enrolled, and make measurable progress toward completion in high‑demand healthcare and workforce‑aligned academic programs.
The certificate programs offer flexibility for both working adults and recent high school graduates. Asynchronous learning options allow participants to gain new skills while balancing personal and professional responsibilities.
Webber seeks to strengthen partnerships with local employers to ensure training aligns with workforce needs. These collaborations help create a steady pipeline of qualified professionals ready to meet the demands of the local job market.
Webber’s President Dr. Nelson Marquez stated, “Webber International University is honored to partner with GiveWell Community Foundation in advancing a shared mission of improving quality of life through strategic investment in education.” He went on to state “This grant reflects a collective commitment to strengthening our community by expanding access to workforce focused academic pathways that create opportunity, support economic mobility, and prepare students for meaningful, in demand careers across Polk County and beyond.”
The university remains committed to addressing Polk County’s workforce challenges by increasing educational opportunities and supporting career advancement in critical sectors.
To learn more about the program offerings please visit: www.webber.edu

 

 

The Warrior Wire- Summer 2026

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