We’ve asked some of the most exemplary graduates of this commencement season about their time at Palm Beach Atlantic University (PBA). Read on to learn about the Class of 2026 and where they’re headed next.
Liliane Aupont
Aupont is from Orlando, Florida, and graduated from Palm Beach Atlantic University’s Lloyd L. Gregory School of Pharmacy with a doctorate of pharmacy. After graduation, she will join a one-year pharmacy residency program at the Cascadia Pharmacy Group.
Why did you choose your specific degree track?
I chose to major in pharmacy because it’s what I’m most passionate about. I prayed to God about my purpose and what I should be doing with my life, and I felt He called me to pharmacy. Looking back, based on my health and life obstacles, I can see why He chose this as a part of my journey.
Why did you choose to pursue your education at PBA?
I chose to pursue my education at PBA because PBA felt like an answered prayer. I prayed for a school where I could grow. I wanted professors who would get to know me and the opportunity to connect with my classmates.
What is your favorite memory at PBA?
One of my favorite memories was during orientation. I had so much anxiety about what to expect during the program, and the moment I heard Dean Jackson pray, I just felt safe. I felt like everything was going to be okay.
Brad Butzberger
Butzberger is from West Palm Beach, Florida, and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in marketing and a minor in popular music. His plans after graduation include getting married in May, finding a full-time marketing job, and growing his music ministry.
Why did you choose your specific degree track?
I chose marketing because I have always been passionate about marketing brands and wanted to continue learning more about it. I also wanted to apply skills and techniques from the business world to market my music.
Why did you choose to pursue your education at PBA?
I chose to pursue my education at PBA because I wanted to go to a local Christ-centered University that provided me with the incredible community God has blessed me with.
What is your favorite memory at PBA?
Some of my favorite memories include starting the evangelism club on campus and meeting my fiancé.
Emily Dobulus
Dobulus is from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, and is graduating with her bachelor’s degree in nursing. After graduation, she will start her role as a nurse at a local emergency room.
Why did you choose PBA and your career path?
I came to PBA because of the high standards for academics, their heart for the Lord, and because the campus seemed like a great community. And I chose this degree track because I love medicine and want to become an ER nurse.
What is your favorite memory at PBA?
My favorite memory at PBA is competing in the Turkey Bowl for the Sailfish Cup!
Peyton Hardesty
Hardesty, from West Palm Beach, Florida, graduated with a Bachelor of Music Education (K-12) degree with a vocal emphasis. She is considering whether she will accept a teaching position or an invitation to a master’s program in choral directing after graduation.
Why did you choose your specific degree track?
I chose music education because, from a young age, I was always passionate about music, especially choral music. I found deep joy in using the musical talent God gave me to serve him. Music is such a beautiful gift from God, and I believe that everyone has a place and purpose in it.
Why did you choose to pursue your education at PBA?
When I visited the campus and spoke with the music faculty, I saw how deeply they cared about their students and how openly they lived out their faith, which ultimately convinced me that PBA was the right choice.
What is your favorite memory at PBA?
My favorite memory at PBA is traveling to New York City with the PBA Oratorio Chorus. It was an incredible opportunity to perform a major choral work at Carnegie Hall. I’m deeply grateful for God’s goodness in providing opportunities like this to combine music and ministry. This June, the PBA choir will be traveling to Europe for a Music and Ministry Tour, which I have a feeling will become my new favorite PBA memory.
Read more stories about the Class of 2026 at https://www.pba.edu/category/commencement/.
