Independence Community College (ICC) is proud to announce that distinguished alumnus and nationally recognized basketball coach Brad Underwood will serve as the 2026 Commencement Speaker and will be honored as ICC’s Distinguished Alumnus.
Commencement will take place on Saturday, May 16 at 10:00 a.m. in the FirstOak Bank and Oakes Family Fieldhouse. The ceremony is free and open to the public.
Underwood, currently the head men’s basketball coach at the University of Illinois, has built one of the nation’s most competitive Division I programs. During his tenure, Illinois has achieved six consecutive 20-win regular seasons, multiple Big Ten Championships, and a 2024 NCAA Elite Eight appearance, its first in nearly two decades.
Since taking over the program in 2017, Underwood has led the Fighting Illini to consistent national prominence, including multiple NCAA Tournament appearances and a No. 1 seed in 2021. Known for his leadership, player development, and competitive success, Underwood has earned recognition as one of the top coaches in college basketball.
“Brad Underwood represents the very best of ICC,” said Cody Oates, Executive Director of the ICC Foundation. “His journey from ICC to leading one of the top programs in the country is a powerful example of what is possible for our students. We are incredibly proud to honor him as a Distinguished Alumnus and welcome him back to campus.”
ICC Interim President Taylor Crawshaw emphasized the impact Underwood’s story will have on graduates.
“Brad’s success is a testament to the hard work, perseverance, and foundation our students build at Independence Community College. said Crawshaw. “We are honored to have him return to share his message with our graduates as they take the next step in their own journeys.”
As a former ICC student-athlete, Underwood’s return to campus serves as a full-circle moment, highlighting the lasting impact of community college education and the opportunities it creates.
ICC invites the community to attend this special celebration honoring the Class of 2026 and to hear from one of its most accomplished alumni.
For more information about commencement, visit www.indycc.edu.