Local Students Earn Degrees from James Madison University

Several local students were among the James Madison University graduates recognized during the university’s May 2026 commencement exercises.

James Madison University announced its spring graduates on June 3, including students from Front Royal, Linden, and Bentonville who completed degrees in fields ranging from business and computer science to education, biology, history, kinesiology, and music.

Alexander Guercio of Front Royal graduated with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in marketing. Johan Mallaug of Linden earned a Bachelor of Science degree in economics. John Adams of Front Royal graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in computer science. Kendall Morris of Front Royal earned a Master of Arts in Teaching degree.

Several area students also graduated with honors.

Celia Cooley of Front Royal graduated with Distinction in Honors Interdisciplinary Studies and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in biology. Annabel Thrush of Front Royal graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts degree in history. Jessica Maricle of Bentonville graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Individualized Study degree in individualized study.

Kiersten Stives of Front Royal graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science degree in kinesiology. Jocelyn Moyer of Front Royal also graduated summa cum laude, earning a Bachelor of Music.

Founded in 1908, James Madison University is a public university located in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley. The university offers undergraduate and graduate programs, advanced research opportunities, and NCAA Division I athletics.