Palm Beach Atlantic University Inc.

05/22/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 05/22/2026 05:56

Exemplary Graduates of PBA’s 2026 Commencement Season

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

Heather Hiemstra

Hiemstra is from Pittstown, New Jersey, and graduated from PBA with a bachelor's degree in accountancy. Hiemstra plans to pursue a corporate tax internship at Munich Reinsurance for the summer, then return to PBA to continue the 3+2 Mastery of Accountancy program and acquire her master's degree in accountancy.

Why did you choose your specific degree track?

I initially started as a management major but later transitioned into the 3+2 Master of Accountancy program. Although I found financial accounting challenging at first, I grew to enjoy it over time. I was also drawn to accounting because of its structured and well-defined career path.

Why did you choose to pursue your education at PBA?

I wanted to attend a Christian university, and as someone from New Jersey, I was also drawn to the warm weather. I appreciated PBA's smaller size, which fosters strong community and meaningful connections.

What is your favorite memory at PBA?

My favorite memory at PBA is Cram Jam during finals week, when students gather in the cafeteria late at night to enjoy breakfast food with friends before continuing to study together.

Crystal Lukose

Lukose is originally from Coral Springs, Florida, and graduated from the PBA's Lloyd L. Gregory School of Pharmacy with her doctorate of pharmacy. Lukose is planning to start her Postgraduate Year One (PGY1) Pharmacy Residency at Broward Health North.

Why did you choose your specific degree track?

I have always felt called to work in healthcare, but my journey into pharmacy became deeply personal over time. While volunteering at a hospital, I saw how pharmacists connect directly with patients, taking the time to explain, reassure, and advocate. That impact stayed with me. During my first year of pharmacy school, my dad was diagnosed with cancer, and my perspective on pharmacy changed completely; I experienced the profession not just as a student, but as a daughter. The pharmacists involved in his care showed such genuine compassion and patience, always making sure we understood his medications and felt supported. In one of the most difficult times for my family, they made things feel a little more manageable. That experience confirmed for me that pharmacy was exactly where I was meant to be.

Why did you choose to pursue your education at PBA?

After completing my undergraduate studies at the University of Florida, I knew I wanted to return home and be closer to my family. When I visited the Lloyd L. Gregory School of Pharmacy with my dad, something just felt right. The environment was welcoming; the class sizes felt personal. There was a strong sense of community with an emphasis on faith, compassion, and servant leadership. I knew this was a place where I would not only grow academically, but also personally.

What is your favorite memory at PBA?

Some of my favorite memories aren't from big events, but from the everyday moments I shared with the classmates who became my family. The student lounge became more than just a study space; it became a second home and a true safe haven. We spent countless hours studying, taking breaks to laugh or cry, celebrating birthdays and milestones, and lifting each other up through stressful exams and long, challenging days. Pharmacy school wasn't always easy, but having a group of people who understood exactly what you were going through made all the difference. The friendships I built here are ones I will carry with me long after graduation.

Mary Beth Stitts

Originally from Daytona Beach, Florida, Stitts graduated from PBA with two bachelor's degrees: one in ministry leadership studies and one in dance. Stitts will be working as a camp director with Connect Ministries over the summer, and then she plans to work in her local church's children's ministry department.

Why did you choose your specific degree track?

I initially entered PBA studying elementary education and dance, but I struggled to find a passion for them in a career setting. Through God's patient call, mentors' advice, and the guidance of PBA professors, God showed me that He had called me to major in both ministry leadership and dance. I'm thankful for each track allowing me to pursue the unique calling God has placed on my life.

Why did you choose to pursue your education at PBA?

I chose to pursue my education at PBA because of the Christ-centered focus. My knowledge has not only grown during my time here, but my relationship with the Lord has immensely grown as well. Smaller class sizes were also a great drawing point, as this meant that I would get to know my professors personally. It was important for me to feel known and seen within the classroom. My professors have intentionally poured into me through attending dance performances, coffee conversations, and even family dinners. PBA also holds their students to a higher level of excellence, which I knew would challenge me. I have never doubted nor regretted my choice to attend PBA, knowing that I have significantly grown closer with the Lord through my time here.

What is your favorite memory at PBA?

My favorite memory at PBA is traveling to South Korea with the dance department to perform at the Asian International Dance Festival. This was an opportunity that I would have never dreamed of experiencing before attending PBA. On this trip, we learned from and interacted with dancers from all over the world. My eyes were opened to the diversity and richness of dance and culture. This experience was a beautiful gift and reminder that God deeply loves me.

Joseph Stancil

Stancil is from Jacksonville, Florida, and graduated from the PBA Supper Honors program with two bachelor's degrees: one in history and the other in mathematics. Stancil will be pursuing a master's degree in Civil War history at Mississippi State University

Why did you choose your specific degree track?

I have always gravitated toward and enjoyed the topic of history. I originally minored in math, but overzealous freshman me signed up for MAT 4053 Abstract Algebra. It was a brutal introduction to advanced math, but I survived and picked up the math major shortly after.

Why did you choose to pursue your education at PBA?

PBA was a natural choice for me. I have family in the area, already knew some of the faculty, and was enamored by the honors program. It was the quality of academics, not the beach, that drew me here.

What is your favorite memory at PBA?

My favorite PBA memory took place back in freshman year. My Polus and Covenant classmates and I would go to the cafeteria every evening to continue in-class discussions. I vividly recall entering a debate about the platonic forms and accidents of grass. This random and humorous debate lasted 45 minutes as we carefully explored the philosophical implications of lawn care.

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 22, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on May 22, 2026 at 11:56 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]