Fresno Pacific Honors Its 2026 Outstanding Graduates
Fresno Pacific Honors Its 2026 Outstanding Graduates
April 21, 2026
By Morgan Schlesselman
As commencement season approaches, ÁñÁ«ÊÓÆµÖ±²¥ celebrates a group of students whose hard work, dedication and character have set them apart.
Selected by faculty and deans, these Outstanding Graduates embody the university’s values through their faith, leadership and commitment to serving others.
This year’s honorees represent both the School of Arts and Sciences and the School of Graduate and Professional Studies, reflecting the diverse paths and experiences that shape the Fresno Pacific community.
2026 Outstanding Graduates
School of Arts and Sciences
Giselle Salcedo Camacho, B.A. in Spanish and B.A. in Communications - She has a record of community service, working as a Spanish tutor at Jackson Elementary, as the social media coordinator for the Jackson Community Development Corporation and as a general tutor for Fresno Unified School District. She will continue into the Teacher Training Program after graduation with the aim of teaching high school Spanish.
Laura Hand, M.A. in English - As an IMAP student, Laura performed at an outstanding level academically while publishing her first pieces of creative writing and pouring herself into revitalizing ÁñÁ«ÊÓÆµÖ±²¥'s freshman composition program.
Francisca Lara, B.A. in Christian Ministry and Leadership - Franny has been an exceptional student, working full time, being a mother of four and navigating numerous personal challenges, all while maintaining a strong academic record. Even more importantly, Franny has continued to deepen her faith, encouraging and leading other students and those at her church. She will attend the Seminary starting next fall.
Malia Mitchell, B.S. in Kinesiology: Pre-Physical Therapy Emphasis - She is a member of the Alpha Chi National Honor Society, has been a resident assistant for three years, is a student leader in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and a Student-Athlete Advisory Committee representative. She plays tennis on the ÁñÁ«ÊÓÆµÖ±²¥ women’s team while also serving as a sports medicine clinic student worker and athletics events staff. Malia has been accepted to graduate studies in the St. Augustine Physical Therapy program.
Maggie Cook, B.A. in Liberal Studies - Maggie is preparing for a career serving youth as a teacher. In addition to serving as the team captain of the water polo team here at ÁñÁ«ÊÓÆµÖ±²¥, she is the JV coach and assistant coach at Buchanan High School. Maggie has also done work as an instructional assistant with special education students in Clovis Unified and as a peer mentor at ÁñÁ«ÊÓÆµÖ±²¥.
School of Graduate and Professional Studies
Trinity Sainz, MSW - Trinity’s excellence is demonstrated not only in her academics but also in her professional practice and servant leadership in the MSW program. She serves as an MSW student ambassador, representing the program and university at events aimed at bringing awareness to the program, and is a cohort representative, leading efforts to build collegiality and excellence among her peers.
Colton Parson, M.A. in School Counseling - He is one of only 14 selected participants in the Optimum School Counselor Residency Program (OSCRRS), in partnership with the Tulare County Office of Education. When faced with challenges at his clinical placement sites, Colton demonstrates notable self-control and professionalism, thoughtfully reflecting before responding. Colton is passionate about empowering the next generation and ensuring students understand the full range of pathways available to them.
Jeff Copeland, M.A. in Theology - At ÁñÁ«ÊÓÆµÖ±²¥, he’s known for his brilliant mind and insatiable hunger for theological depth. Jeff serves as the associate pastor of spiritual formation at The Garage Church—a church he helped found, and one that has become the fastest-growing church plant in Fresno. From a middle school classroom to a church he helped build from the ground up, Jeff Copeland is living proof that when God calls, the only real risk is saying no.
Choua Yang, M.A. in Reading and Language Arts - As a teacher, she is dedicated to her students, constantly seeking ways to improve her instruction and best meet their needs as learners. As a member of the Reading & Language cohort, she helps her classmates and engages with them inside and outside of class, putting her dedication to learning and collaborating into practice.
Jordan C. Soliz, MBA - In group assignments and live consulting simulations, Jordan consistently emerges as a steady and credible leader. Jordan has the ability to celebrate collective wins and identify alternative outcomes for team setbacks.
Marione Lear, MSN - She understands that nursing is not just a profession, but a calling to serve humanity with compassion and dignity. As a family nurse practitioner, she plans to work in a rural clinic, where she can provide compassionate, comprehensive care to underserved communities. Marione also plans to pursue her Doctorate in Nursing and expand her role within the BSN program, further contributing to academic excellence and the preparation of future nurses.
These students will be honored at a special recognition event on Wednesday, April 29, where they will receive a commemorative plaque and honor cords during a program with faculty and university leaders.
As Outstanding Graduates, they join a distinguished community of Fresno Pacific alumni and carry this recognition for life. Their achievements reflect the university’s mission and serve as an inspiration to future students to lead with purpose and integrity.
Morgan Schlesselman
Director of Alumni Development
Morgan Schlesselman (BA ’20) is director of alumni development. She loves connecting with alumni and keeping them connected to Fresno Pacific. The Valley and ÁñÁ«ÊÓÆµÖ±²¥ have been formative in her life, and she is passionate about serving. Morgan would love to hear from you! You can reach her at alumni@fresno.edu.