2026 MAT and OMAT Graduates Showcase Research at Annual Capstone Symposia

The 2026 graduating classes of the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) and Online Master of Arts in Teaching (OMAT) programs marked the completion of their studies in July by presenting their scholarly research at the annual Graduate Research Capstone Symposia.

The intensive 11-month programs enable teacher candidates to earn a master’s degree while completing the requirements for a teaching credential. Each program culminates in a capstone symposium, where candidates share their graduate research with classmates, faculty members, families and other guests.

At the Calabasas Graduate Campus, 41 MAT teacher candidates from the Calabasas and West Los Angeles cohorts presented their research. The event also featured a celebratory dinner and special recognition of the graduating class.

Shubhita Verma, a member of the Class of 2025 and a science and mathematics teacher in Northern California, delivered the keynote address. Verma spoke about her passion for working with students, teaching complex subjects and helping learners develop a deeper understanding of challenging material.

Later that week, 23 OMAT candidates from across California presented their research during a virtual Graduate Research Capstone Symposium. The online format allowed candidates to showcase their work for peers, professors and family members throughout the state.

Kimmy O’Connell, also a member of the Class of 2025, delivered the OMAT symposium’s keynote address. A substitute teacher for the Los Angeles Unified School District, O’Connell emphasized the importance of building rapport with students to create positive classroom learning environments. She also encouraged the new educators to find joy in the everyday moments of teaching.

Each year, the Scholarship Committee recognizes one candidate from every cohort for exceptional achievement in graduate studies and clinical field experience. The recipients of the 2026 Margot Condon Award for Teaching Excellence were Israel Spencer of the Calabasas cohort, Amanda Ortega of the West Los Angeles cohort and Natalie Focha of the OMAT Class of 2026.

Congratulations to the 2026 MAT and OMAT graduates as they begin the next chapter of their work as educators.