Aleisha Oldham will speak during the 7 p.m. ceremony at Great Southern Bank Arena on May 14, 2026
Ozarks Tech 2026 Commencement Student Speaker Aleisha Oldham has distinguished herself through academic excellence and campus involvement after finding “confidence and community” at the college.
Oldham, who is graduating with an Associate of Arts in Criminal Justice, earned recognition on the Dean’s List, Provost’s List and Chancellor’s List, and was an active member of honor society Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) and Women in Criminal Justice.
Her achievements are especially meaningful in light of early life challenges that delayed her education, followed by a later cancer diagnosis that ultimately motivated her return to school.
“For years, I believed college was not meant for someone like me,” Oldham said. “After receiving remission status, I decided to stop putting my goals on hold.”
After earning a high school diploma in her early 30s, Oldham started at Ozarks Tech with a single online course. As an older, non-traditional student, she struggled with feelings of belonging, but credits joining PTK with pushing her to become more involved with the Springfield campus community by participating in events and working in the Honors Lounge.
In her commencement address, Oldham will reflect on themes of perseverance, overcoming self-doubt and the power of community.
Beyond school, Oldham has volunteered with Spokes BMX, a local nonprofit BMX track, where she also served on the board. She acted as an advocate for a young BMX rider during his liver transplant journey through the Children’s Organ Transplant Association. She has also volunteered with charitable organizations including Chive Charities, A Sporting Chance and Fallen Hero’s Dream Ride.
Following graduation, Oldham plans to transfer and complete her bachelor’s degree. She credits her 16-year-old son, Bryce, as her greatest inspiration.
“I understand what it feels like to doubt yourself and keep going anyway,” she said. “I am honored to stand on that stage as an example that it’s never too late to change your future.”
Photo courtesy staff photographer Kristina Bridges