Webber Holds Annual Convocation Ceremony to Launch Centennial Celebration

Babson Park, FL (August 13, 2026)- Webber International University hosted its annual convocation ceremony on August 13, marking the official start of the 2026-2027 academic year and the launch of the institution's Centennial celebration. While convocation traditionally brings faculty and staff together to prepare for the year ahead, this year's gathering carried special significance as the university began a Centennial observance that will span the 2026-2027 and 2027-2028 academic years, commemorating 100 years of educational excellence and preparing for Webber's next century of impact.

Approximately 750 students will return to class on August 24 as the new academic year gets underway.

Founded by the Babson family on April 6, 1927, Webber International University has long been a cornerstone of higher education in Polk County, Florida. As the region’s oldest post-secondary institution, Webber has played a vital role in shaping generations of leaders and professionals.

Continuing a tradition from previous years, President and CEO Dr. Nelson Marquez announced the theme for the academic year: WEBBER FORWARD: Building Our Next Century.

The agenda featured a President's address, departmental updates from campus leadership, and a review of the 2025-2030 Strategic Plan. During the strategic plan session, employees participated in an exercise focused on strengthening the institution's position in the region, throughout the state, and globally as a valuable resource. Reinforcing the collaborative nature of the initiative, Dr. Marquez stated that "Webber Forward: Building Our Next Century cannot simply be something that comes from the President or the Leadership Team."

Last year's theme was Forging a New Path and Writing a New Chapter. Dr. Marquez stated, "sometimes organizations must have the courage to leave familiar paths behind and create something new." The theme acknowledged the many challenges post-secondary institutions face in today's evolving economic landscape while encouraging the university community to embrace change and innovation.

Acknowledging the opportunity that lies before the institution, Dr. Marquez stated, “As we approach Webber International University's Centennial, this theme reflects both the significance of where we have been and, more importantly, our shared responsibility for where we are going. This year will be about continuing our progress, embracing opportunities for growth, strengthening our university, and laying the foundation for Webber's next century.”

Last year, Dr. Marquez established an Outstanding Employee Award to recognize an employee who demonstrated persistence, dedication, and innovative ideas during the previous academic year. This year’s recipient was Katey Sanders, a Webber graduate who now works in the university’s business office as a student account clerk. 
To learn more about Webber International University, please visit www.webber.edu 
About Webber International University

Established in 1927 by Roger Babson as the first college chartered under Florida's then new charitable and educational laws, Webber International University is a private, not-for-profit, independent institution offering degrees at the associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s levels. Founded as a school of business for women, the university boasts highly qualified faculty, engaged staff, small class sizes, and a diverse range of intercollegiate sports and extracurricular activities. Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, the institution offers numerous programs through traditional day and entirely online formats.