Bay College Class of 2026 student commencement speaker Abigail Rich.

ESCANABA, MI – Bay College is excited to announce that Abigail Rich has been selected to deliver the College’s 2026 graduation student commencement speech on May 9, 2026.

Abigail is one of two children and part of a set of twins. She and her twin brother grew up in North Carolina on a hobby farm. Abigail will earn her associate’s degree in criminal justice this May. She is excited to reach this milestone and to celebrate her brother’s graduation from trade school later this year.

Abigail will transfer to Northern Michigan University this fall to pursue a bachelor’s degree. She plans to become a Department of Natural Resources (DNR) officer after completing her education.

Abigail says, “Bay College has been a steppingstone for my future career. I have learned so much about life and what it takes to succeed during my two years here. I am excited to keep learning and pushing myself to the next step.”

Abigail loves the outdoors and spends much of her time at the beach during the summer. She values community and understands how important it is in a person’s life.