SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WGGB/WSHM) - On Sunday, over 700 students from Bay Path University’s Class of 2026 had finally received their degrees after years of studying and hard work.

The commencement ceremony stared at 4 p.m. that afternoon, as graduating students heard inspiring speeches for their future as they look to enter the workforce.

It wasn’t complete without a speech from western Mass. native and Chief Financial Officer of Duracell Lisa McCarthy, who also told her story rising up through the ranks up to her time as the Chief Executive Officer at the Yankee Candle Company.