American International College (AIC) will celebrate its 141st Commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at the MassMutual Center in Springfield. President Nicolle Cestero will preside over the ceremony.

Femita Ayanbeku, a world-class Paralympian, advocate, and 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.

Ayanbeku is an elite disabled athlete, advocate, and community leader whose career reflects excellence, resilience, and impact. As the fastest female amputee in the United States, she has competed at the highest levels of international sport, representing Team USA at the Paralympic Games in both Rio de Janeiro and Tokyo. Her achievements on the track are the result of years of discipline, focus, and determination, earning her recognition as one of the most accomplished athletes in adaptive sports.

Beyond competition, Ayanbeku has built a platform centered on advocacy and empowerment. She is the founder of Limb-it-less Creations Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting individuals with limb loss and promoting confidence, self-advocacy, and opportunity within the disability community. Through mentorship, public engagement, and outreach, her work challenges limiting narratives and highlights the strength and capability of people with disabilities.

In recognition of her achievements as a Paralympic athlete and her 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.”

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 a leading health and wellness center in Greater Hartford, Connecticut. He is also the Vice President and Co-founder of DT Cares, a nonprofit dedicated to youth mentorship and community impact, guided by the mantra “To be who you needed growing up.”