Palm Beach Atlantic University Inc.

05/21/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 05/21/2026 05:59

Celebrating Outstanding Graduates from Palm Beach Atlantic University’s Class of 2026

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We have asked some of the most exemplary graduates of this commencement season about their time at Palm Beach Atlantic University (PBA). Read on to learn about the Class of 2026 and where they are heading next.

Emma Phillips

Phillips is from Tulsa, Oklahoma, and graduated from PBA with a bachelor's degree in intercultural studies and a minor in biology. She will join the Nagoya church planting team in Japan through Mission to the World, where she will teach at a recently established K-12 school, as well as in college ministry.

Why did you choose your specific degree track?

I came to PBA with the dream of becoming a marine biologist, and I pursued that track until the end of my sophomore year when I went on a short-term mission trip to Brazil and the Lord burdened my heart for cross-cultural missions. It was beautiful to see the nations worshipping God together, and I had never experienced such joy. After that trip, I prayed with my community for discernment and wisdom and then changed my major to intercultural studies. The Lord has used intercultural studies in formative ways; I have grown in compassion, strengthened my faith, and become more culturally aware and competent.

Why did you choose to pursue your education at PBA?

I chose PBA because I wanted to attend a university that intentionally forms students in their walk with Christ. When I visited during my senior year of high school, I was drawn to the tight-knit community and, of course, I was excited about the opportunity to live so close to the beach.

What is your favorite memory at PBA?

I am forever thankful for the roommate and suitemates I had my sophomore year in Weyenberg Hall. It's hard to choose just one moment because I truly loved doing life with them, but if I had to, I especially cherished our evenings spent sipping tea together, laughing, crying, and praying for one another. These women have become the first people I want to share both the joys and the griefs of life with. I am eternally grateful that I met them during my time at PBA.

Ami Piper

Piper was adopted from China at a young age, and has lived with her family in Delray Beach, Florida, since then. Piper graduated this spring from PBA with her bachelor's degree in business and law. She is moving to Lynchburg, Virginia, to attend Liberty University School of Law and pursue her J.D. degree. Following law school, she hopes to return to Palm Beach County to practice law.

Why did you choose your specific degree track?

I chose business and law because of the opportunities it creates. For a long time, I felt torn between pursuing nonprofit work and going into law, because I cared deeply for both. I had originally planned to work in nonprofit leadership; I wanted to make a difference in that space. But over time, I realized that I don't have to choose just one path. God has shown me that doors can open in unexpected ways, just like the dual degree. The business and law major allowed me to pursue the possibilities of advocating for clients while staying connected to my passion for nonprofits, including serving in leadership roles. That realization has given me so much peace and excitement for what is ahead of me.

Why did you choose to pursue your education at PBA?

I truly believe God called me to PBA. I remember coming on multiple tours between my junior and senior year of high school, and after my first visit, I didn't feel like PBA was my home. But when I returned in the fall of my senior year, something shifted. I immediately knew it was the only school I wanted to apply to and that this was where I belonged. That moment brought an immense sense of peace and clarity which reassured me that God was guiding my steps, even when I didn't recognize it at first.

What is your favorite memory at PBA?

My favorite memory was when I led my first project as a worship leader. Stepping into that role felt both exciting and a little intimidating, but it pushed me to grow in ways I didn't expect. It was one of the first moments when I could see everything PBA had been pouring into me come to life, and it truly felt like the embodiment of PBA's motto of enlightening minds, enriching souls, and extending hands. That experience reminded me why I felt so called to be here in the first place.

Amberleigh Sorensen

Sorensen is originally from Yorktown, Indiana, and graduated from PBA with a master's degree in accountancy and analytics. After graduation, she plans to move to Cleveland, Ohio, where she will be working for Parker Hannifin Corporation as an accounting leadership development associate.

Why did you choose your specific degree track?

After earning my bachelor's degree in business, I was not sure what my next steps were. When I arrived at PBA, I learned that there was a new blended accountancy and analytics program, and it immediately stood out to me. In the workplace today, analytics skills are gaining value. I loved that this degree could help me build a strong accounting foundation while also gaining the analytical knowledge and skills employers are looking for.

Why did you choose to pursue your education at PBA?

I first learned about PBA when I was recruited by the cross country and track coach. But what ultimately sold me was a combination of campus offerings, the community, and the surrounding area. I felt like I had found a place that would allow me to grow as a whole person; academically, athletically, and personally.

What is your favorite memory at PBA?

My favorite memory at PBA is truly the relationships that I have built here. The friendships and meaningful connections PBA provided me will last a lifetime.

Bethany Wolek

Wolek is from DeLand, Florida, and graduated from the PBA Supper Honors program with a bachelor's degree in dance, a minor in English, and a concentration in dance ministry. Wolek plans to join a dance ministry called Arrows International as a company apprentice.

Why did you choose your specific degree track?

When I auditioned for the PBA dance program, the dance ministry concentration did not yet exist. I have felt the Lord calling me to pursue dance ministry since I was fourteen, and I have seen the Lord speak and minister to others through this art form. When I arrived in the fall, I learned that the PBA dance department had added a concentration in dance ministry that would allow me to take classes specific to the dance ministry field as well as classes with the School of Ministry. I am so grateful to the Lord for providing me with the opportunity to study dance ministry in a way that I could not have possibly planned.

Why did you choose to pursue your education at PBA?

I was drawn to PBA because of the community and quality of education. I really felt a sense of family and belonging from the dance department. I also love that I can study a wide variety of subjects at a high caliber. In my time pursuing my English minor and my concentration in ministry, I have learned from highly accomplished professors in each field. I am so grateful to have professors who are immensely accomplished in their respective fields who also desire to serve and pour into their students.

What is your favorite memory at PBA?

I have been blessed to travel with PBA Dance all over the world. We have performed, studied, and ministered in New York City, Houston, and South Korea. I have learned about cultural dances from all over the world, met and worked with world-renowned teachers and choreographers, and shined the light of Christ in many nations. We have shared stages and studios with so many different artists. I have gained a new appreciation for God's character after seeing His image reflected in so many different cultures. His Kingdom is vast and multifaceted, and beautiful. This summer, I will be traveling with another team from PBA Dance to Spain and France! I am so excited to wrap up my time at PBA with an outreach trip like this one.

Read more stories about the Class of 2026 at https://www.pba.edu/category/commencement/.

Palm Beach Atlantic University Inc. published this content on May 21, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on May 21, 2026 at 11:59 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]