Dear BAU Community,
As we close out another enriching academic year, I want to take a moment to reflect on the achievements and milestones that made this past month so special, from impactful initiatives to joyful celebrations across Bay Atlantic University.
Most notably, we gathered to honor our graduating Class of 2026 at an unforgettable commencement ceremony. I want to extend my sincere gratitude to everyone who contributed to the graduation committee. Your dedication, time, and effort helped make this year’s celebration truly exceptional.
A Few Highlights from May:
Celebrating 12 Years of Bay Atlantic University
We began the month by celebrating the 12th anniversary of Bay Atlantic University, reflecting on its evolution from a vision in 2014 to a dynamic and globally engaged academic community today. This milestone honors the growth and impact of the university, shaped by the dedication of its students, faculty, and staff who continue to define and strengthen what BAU is today.
A Masquerade Under the Stars
This past month, our students enjoyed the first BAU Masquerade Cruise on the Potomac River. Set against the backdrop of the city’s skyline, the evening featured music, dancing, and a vibrant atmosphere that brought our community together in celebration.
Congratulations to our King and Queen of the evening, and sincere thanks to our Student Services team for their dedication to making this memorable experience possible.
Summer 2026 Orientation: A New Beginning
Recently, we welcomed our newest students during Summer 2026 Orientation as they officially began their journey at Bay Atlantic University. The orientation experience introduced students to campus life, academic expectations, and the supportive community that awaits them, while also creating space to form meaningful connections with peers, faculty, and staff. We look forward to seeing this next generation grow, learn, and build community at BAU.
Class of 2026 Alumni Spotlight
Ahmed Hazgu, MBA
Class of 2026 | Cum Laude
“This journey has challenged me, strengthened me, and taught me the value of perseverance, discipline, and ambition. I am deeply grateful for the experiences, the people I met along the way, and everyone who supported me throughout this chapter. I’m excited for what’s next and ready for new opportunities and challenges ahead.”
Prince A, M.S in Cybersecurity
Class of 2026 | Magna Cum Laude
“This journey reinforced for me that growth is rooted in applied learning, the ability to adapt to an ever-changing industry, and a commitment to staying curious. I’m also excited to share that last month I stepped into a new role as a Senior Platform Engineer at KosmosDX, another opportunity to keep learning, solve complex problems, and contribute at a higher level. Most importantly, I hope to continue giving back by sharing knowledge, supporting others, and helping those around me grow along the way. I’m deeply grateful to everyone who has supported me throughout this journey. This is only the beginning.”
Wazhma Khalili Raheem, MBA
Class of 2026
“This journey has been both challenging and rewarding, helping me grow personally and professionally while gaining valuable knowledge and skills along the way. I am deeply grateful to my professors, family, friends and colleagues for their encouragement and support throughout this experience. This is a meaningful milestone for me, and I look forward to the opportunities ahead as I continue learning, growing, and taking on new challenges.”
Didem Kaymak, MBA
Class of 2026 | Magna Cum Laude
“I’m so thankful to my husband for being such a supportive partner during this time, and to my family, especially my mum, for always believing in me, encouraging me, and being there for me every step of the way. Another special thank you to my professors, classmates, and teammates at Bay Atlantic University. This diploma represents much more than an academic achievement for me. It is proof that some dreams may take time, but they are always worth pursuing.”
Commencement 2026
Our 2026 Commencement Ceremony brought together global leaders, proud graduates, and faculty for lasting memories.
It was an empowering gathering of leadership as our Board of Trustees and distinguished guests came together to celebrate the Class of 2026.
This year’s Commencement Ceremony was honored by the presence of distinguished guests, including Dr. Ahu Yildirimaz, Chair of the BAU Board of Trustees; Dr. Sinem Vatanartiran, President of BAU; His Excellency Ambassador Sedat Önal, Ambassador of Türkiye to the United States; Michael Schneider, BAU Board Member; Nicole Ifill, Keynote Speaker; Angie Alexandra Angarita Velasquez, Valedictorian; and members of the BAU faculty and staff.
It was a privilege to celebrate our graduates alongside Board members and distinguished guests in recognizing the achievements of our graduates and to share in the excitement of what lies ahead for them.
We were pleased to welcome Nicole Ifill, Deputy Director of the U.S. Program Data & AI Infrastructure Strategy Team at the Gates Foundation, as our keynote speaker. Her speech focused on the future of AI and how it can be a powerful tool for individuals and society.
We also honored Dr. Zelalem Mengistu with the Faculty of the Year Award for the Class of 2026. Congratulations on this well-earned recognition.
As we look ahead, I hope our recent graduates will carry forward BAU’s motto, Dare to Dream. More than words, it is a mindset that reflects who we are becoming as a university committed to growth, impact, and transformation.
To our graduates, we encourage you to continue upholding the principles that have guided your journey at BAU: ambition, integrity, compassion, and resilience. This moment is not a farewell, but the beginning of a new chapter shaped by the knowledge, experiences, and connections you have gained.
June at a Glance
Looking ahead to the months to come, I am excited for what is on the horizon.
This summer, we will focus on revamping and enhancing the university experience as we prepare to warmly welcome both new and returning students in the upcoming fall semester.
Thank you for being part of the BAU journey. The best is yet to come.
Warm regards,
Dr. Sinem Vatanartiran
President, Bay Atlantic University
