American International College (AIC) will celebrate its 141st Commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at the Mass Mutual Center in Springfield. President Nicolle Cestero will preside over the ceremony.
Paralympian and AIC Alumna to Deliver Commencement Address
Femita Ayanbeku, a world-class Paralympian and proud AIC alumna, will deliver the Commencement address to undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral recipients in the Class of 2026. A 2014 AIC graduate with a Bachelor of Arts, she will also receive an honorary degree from the College.
In addition to her athletic achievements, Ayanbeku has distinguished herself as an elite disabled athlete and community leader. Her career has been defined by excellence, resilience, and impact. As the fastest female amputee in the United States, she has competed at the highest levels of international sport. She represented Team USA at the Paralympic Games in both Rio de Janeiro and Tokyo. Along the way, she has demonstrated years of discipline, focus, and determination on the track, earning recognition as one of the most accomplished athletes in adaptive sports.
Beyond competition, Ayanbeku has built a powerful platform centered on advocacy and empowerment. She is the founder of Limb-it-less Creations Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to supporting individuals with limb loss. The organization promotes confidence, self-advocacy, and opportunity within the disability community. Through mentorship, public engagement, and outreach, her work challenges limiting narratives and highlights the capability of people with disabilities.
In recognition of both her extraordinary achievements as a Paralympic athlete and her unwavering commitment to expanding opportunity and representation for individuals with disabilities, American International College will award Ayanbeku an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters.
“Femita Ayanbeku’s journey is a powerful example of resilience, determination, and purpose,” said Michael Dodge, provost. “As a Paralympian, she has competed at the highest levels of sport, but her impact extends far beyond the track. Through her advocacy, entrepreneurship, and creative work, she continues to challenge perceptions, elevate voices, and inspire others to pursue their goals without limitation. We are honored to recognize her achievements and to welcome her to AIC’s Commencement as a role model for our graduates as they begin their own paths of purpose and impact.”
Distinguished Alumnus to Welcome the Class of 2026
Two-time AIC graduate Devonte Dillion ’17, MBA ’19, will present the alumni speech. Dillion is the CEO and Co-founder of Dilligence Training, recognized as the leading health and wellness center in Greater Hartford, Connecticut. In addition, he serves as Vice President and Co-founder of DT Cares. The nonprofit is dedicated to youth mentorship and community impact, guided by the mantra “To be who you needed growing up.”
He is the author of Who Am I & What Do I Do?, a book inspired by his experience navigating depression and a loss of identity after his athletic career. Drawing from those experiences, the book explores themes of identity, purpose, and personal growth.
Furthermore, Dillion earned national recognition as a Kappa Alpha Psi health initiative leader for contributing to White House-connected efforts. Additionally, his work has been featured internationally in the Times of India.
“I am honored to serve as the Alumni Speaker for the 2026 ceremony,” Dillion said. “AIC played a pivotal role in shaping both my academic and personal journey. I deeply value the opportunity to welcome graduates into the alumni community in a way that reflects that impact.”
At Commencement, Devonte will officially welcome graduates into the AIC alumni community.
Celebrate Commencement Live
Those unable to attend in person can view the ceremony via live steam on YouTube.