Commencement Information

Find out more about Commencement 2025: https://cottey.edu/cottey-commencement/

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Cottey student in black shirt standing in fron of NASA sign at the Langley Falls Research Center.

Bryce Bearson

In the summer of ’25, Bryce Bearson (class of ’25) was an Earth Scient Strategic Analysis Intern for the Space Mission Analysis Branch at NASA’s Langley Research Center.

She worked on a team that supported strategic decision making for NASA’s Earth Science Division.

Bryce is currently working on her master’s in environmental science at Iowa State University. Her work is focused on designing sustainable agricultural systems and collaborating with farmers and landowners to improve agroecosystems.

After her master’s program, Bryce plans to earn a PhD with a focus on using geospatial data to understand how humans interact and impact the environment.

“I enjoyed the various experiences that came with a Cottey education. Whether that was trips abroad, traditions, or intimate classroom settings, I feel that I learned more about the world around me and myself.

“Cottey pushed me to be the researcher I am today. My confidence, knowledge, and passion all stem from my coursework and mentors at Cottey.”

-Bryce Bearson

Cottey student wearing a gray business suit and smiling into the camera.

Emma Notick

Emma is a second-year law student at Chapman University’s Dale E. Fowler School of Law. While she was a student at Cottey, she had a passion for law, and credits Cottey’s supportive atmosphere for helping her achieve her goal.

“Cottey helped me achieve my goals by providing a strong sense of community and support. Throughout my four years, my professors knew I wanted to go to law school, and they were incredibly supportive throughout the process. They would periodically check in on how my law school applications were going and offered invaluable advice and guidance for admissions. This personalized mentorship and encouragement were key in helping me stay on track and earn admissions into law schools.

“The small school environment also allowed me to build meaningful, lasting connections with both my peers and professors. It was so rewarding to be part of a place where everyone genuinely cared about each other’s success, and that network has been incredibly valuable in both my academic and professional journey.”

-Emma Notick ’24

 

A woman with blond and purple hair singing into a microphone with passion.

Taylor Jordan

Taylor Jordan (’24) graduated from Cottey with a theatre degree, and immediately landed a job at the Walmart AMP and Walton Arts Center.

She works as a crew member, crew chief, and a production assistant, using the technical skills she learned in Cottey’s theatre program to help set up and tear down live music and theatrical productions at the AMP and Walton Arts Center.

Watch Taylor’s Story