Graduate Students Celebrate Achievement at DU Commencement

Photos by Dave Pavlina

Inside and outside of Magness Arena last Friday, the atmosphere was exuberant as families and friends gathered to celebrate the University of Denver’s Class of 2026 graduate students, marking the successful end to the University’s 162nd academic year. 

About 1,120 students were honored at the day’s two ceremonies: The morning Crimson Ceremony honored master’s, education specialist, and doctoral candidates from the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, Daniels College of Business, Graduate School of Professional Psychology, Iliff School of Theology, Korbel School of Global and Public Affairs, and Morgridge College of Education; and the afternoon Gold Ceremony celebrated graduates from the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, Graduate School of Social Work, Ritchie School of Engineering and Computer Science, and College of Professional Studies.

The sounds of Denver Brass welcomed guests and graduates as they entered the arena. Cheers and whistles erupted from the crowd, while colorful, decorated mortarboards stood out as graduates took their seats in front of the stage. 

A Celtic band led by a bagpiper then escorted University leadership into the arena, including Chancellor Jeremy Haefner and Provost Elizabeth Loboa.

John Miller, chairman of DU’s Board of Trustees, welcomed graduates and guests before Tracie Sheppard of the Alumni Council officially welcomed them into DU’s alumni community—a global network of more than 160,000 that offers lifelong connections beyond graduation.

In her remarks, Provost Loboa reflected on the perseverance required to complete a graduate degree. “You set out to become an expert in something that matters, and now you are one,” she told graduates. “That’s proof you can take on the next hard problem, because you’ve already done the hardest thing, which is to keep going when the answer was not guaranteed.”

She later asked graduates to stand, turn toward the audience, and thank those who supported them—prompting waves, applause, and heart-shaped hand gestures throughout the arena. 

Chancellor Haefner introduced alumna and sculptor Gail Folwell (BFA ’83, pictured right), who received an honorary Doctor of Fine Arts degree before taking to the podium to deliver the keynote address. Folwell encouraged graduates to embrace imagination, energy, and curiosity throughout their careers. Drawing on stories from her life and artistic journey, she spoke about the importance of stepping outside comfort zones, immersing oneself in meaningful work—what she calls “dropping in”—and continuing to learn from others. 

She also reflected on the inspiration behind her well-known sculpture, “In the Peloton,” comparing the supportive power of a cycling group to the communities graduates will build throughout their lives. Just as cyclists become stronger together, she said, people achieve more by sharing knowledge, supporting one another, and pursuing growth.

Graduates crossed the stage to receive their degrees, pausing for photos with University leaders as family members celebrated from the stands. At one point, a child’s excited voice rang out when he spotted someone special: “There’s doctor daddy!”

The next chapter

With diplomas in hand, the graduates settled back into their seats as Chancellor Haefner addressed the audience. On a day marked by reflection and anticipation, he spoke about the 250th anniversary of the United States, the complex feelings the idea of America stirs, and the need to embrace “a mix of hope and hesitation.”

“As you leave this ceremony and enter what comes next, I ask one thing: invest time in thinking about America and your place in it,” he said, urging graduates to consider the responsibility that comes with their education, freedom, influence, and voice.

“All of us … are proud of you. All of us believe in you,” he concluded. “And we can’t wait to see the part you will play in America’s next chapter.”

For many graduates, the day represented both a culmination and a beginning.

“I’m feeling some nerves, but I’m really excited for this occasion,” said Gina Mathew, who earned a master’s degree in international studies. “It’s really fun to see all my friends dressed up and ready to celebrate a new milestone in our lives.”

For Dylan Allman, who earned a master’s degree in finance after completing his undergraduate degree at DU, the ceremony carried special significance. 

“I earned my undergraduate degree here as well, so graduating today feels especially meaningful,” Allman said. “I’m looking forward to celebrating with my parents, making them proud, and maybe even seeing the balloons fall again—that’s always a great way to end the ceremony.”

Sidharth Narayan, who earned a Master of Science in Business Analytics, said the degree aligned perfectly with his professional goals.

“I always wanted to pursue data analytics, and I think this degree was exactly what I was looking for,” Narayan said. “It was designed in a way that makes sense in today’s world, and it gave me the confidence and practical skills to make meaningful decisions.”

Amid the well wishes, hugs, and photos with family and friends, the DU Newsroom captured these moments of celebration from Commencement day.