Spring 2026 Commencement: Joyce Tagne
Joyce Tagne first came to Cleveland from Cameroon as an exchange student in 2019 and was struck by the city's welcoming spirit. When she returned in 2024, she came to Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C®) to pursue higher education.
Her journey has been nothing short of remarkable.
At Tri-C, Tagne balanced roles as Student Government secretary and president of Active Minds. She was a member of the Honors Program, Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel Scholars, Democracy Fellows and the President’s Society. She was active in both the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and the Psi Beta National Honor Society in Psychology and consistently made the dean's list throughout her time at Tri-C.
Through these experiences, Tagne has developed a passion for leadership, service and creating meaningful change within her community.
"Moving to the U.S. has shaped my resilience, adaptability and perspective," she said. "I am passionate about student advocacy, mental health awareness, and creating spaces where students feel seen and supported."
Tagne was selected by her classmates as the Student Speaker during the College's Spring Commencement celebration on May 15 at the Wolstein Center. She will graduate summa cum laude with an Associate of Science from the School of Liberal Arts and Sciences.
Tagne will transfer to Cleveland State University to pursue a bachelor’s degree in biology and a minor in psychology. She hopes to become a psychiatrist.
"What draws me most to psychiatry is the opportunity to support people through difficult moments and make a meaningful difference in their lives," Tagne said.
What made you choose Tri-C?
I chose Tri-C because of its affordable tuition, multiple campuses and strong reputation. Cleveland welcomed me when I was an exchange student at 15 years old.
Describe your Tri-C experience. Has a specific person, class or event played a role in your success?
My experience has been defined by growth, mentorship and self-discovery. Through my involvement in different organizations at Tri-C, I have been supported by mentors who have each contributed to my leadership journey in unique ways. Tri-C's extensive resources, from tutoring and bus passes to the Food Pantry and emergency funds, have helped remove barriers to my success, and I am deeply grateful for that.
How has Tri-C changed your life?
I came to Tri-C for my education, and I am leaving with a support system. Tri-C has supported me as a whole individual and helped me achieve my goals. It was here that I found my place, discovered my purpose and built lifelong connections. As the saying goes, "It takes a village," and Tri-C has truly been my village. Now, I am ready to blossom.
What advice do you have for your fellow graduates?
Stay curious, seek out support and take advantage of every opportunity available to you. Getting involved on campus and building connections can make a significant difference in both your academic success and personal growth.
Tri-C will celebrate the academic achievements of its newest graduates during Commencement on May 15 at the Wolstein Center in Cleveland. Check our Spring 2026 Graduate Stories page leading up to the event for more highlights from the Class of 2026.
May 15, 2026
By Anthony Moujaes, 216-987-3068 or anthony.moujaes@tri-c.edu