First Hamilton School graduates help define new academic path at UF

When the University of Florida celebrated its spring 2026 commencement, three students made history as the first graduates of the Hamilton School of Classical and Civic Education, a program they helped shape from its earliest days.

For John McKeehan, Frank Quattrochi and Gracelyn Roach, the milestone reflected both academic achievement and a willingness to step into something new. Drawn to the school’s interdisciplinary philosophy, politics, economics and law curriculum and discussion-based approach, each found a sense of purpose through close faculty mentorship and a tight-knit intellectual community.

“These students helped set the tone for what the Hamilton School is becoming,” said Charles T. Canady, director of the Hamilton School. “Their intellectual curiosity, commitment to thoughtful dialogue and willingness to engage deeply with complex ideas have defined the culture of the program from the very beginning.”

McKeehan, a philosophy, politics, economics and law major with a philosophy minor, served in Reformed University Fellowship and completed a pastoral internship. He also participated in the Hamilton School’s Society of Fellows and studied abroad, experiences that broadened his perspective. He will pursue a Master of Divinity at Reformed Theological Seminary in Orlando on a full scholarship.

Quattrochi, who double majored in economics and philosophy, politics, economics and law with a philosophy minor, immersed himself in campus leadership as a fraternity president, Student Government senator and Ideas editor of the Florida Finibus. A research intern to Walter Russell Mead and member of Florida Blue Key, he credited the Hamilton School with shaping his academic direction at a pivotal moment. He will continue his studies at the Hamilton School to pursue a master’s degree in the history of ideas.

Roach, also a double major in economics and philosophy, politics, economics and law with a philosophy minor, was drawn to the program’s Socratic style and interdisciplinary focus. Her leadership in the Reformed University Fellowship and study abroad at the University of Pécs in Hungary deepened her engagement with philosophy, politics and history. She will continue her studies at the Hamilton School in the war, statecraft and strategy master’s program.

“As the inaugural cohort, these graduates leave a lasting imprint on a program designed to prepare students for thoughtful leadership in civic life, setting the foundation for those who follow,” Canady said.