BLOOMINGTON — Over 11,500 graduates gathered at Indiana University Bloomington this weekend to mark a historic milestone, as the Class of 2026 received their degrees during a pair of ceremonies that celebrated perseverance in the face of adversity.
The festivities culminated Saturday night, May 9, under the lights of Memorial Stadium for the Undergraduate Commencement. The graduate ceremony preceded it on Friday afternoon at Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall. This year’s ceremonies awarded more than 11,500 degrees in Bloomington alone, contributing to a statewide total of over 21,000 for the university.
The theme of the weekend was “nonlinear paths,” with speakers highlighting the grit required to reach graduation.
Mel Raines, president and CEO of Pacers Sports & Entertainment and a 1991 IU alumna, delivered the undergraduate keynote address. Drawing on her experience leading the $400 million renovation of Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Raines urged students to be “agile learners” and to embrace the lateral moves that often lead to long-term success.
Student speakers also shared deeply personal stories:
Katherine Lee Johnson, an undergraduate marketing student, spoke about her journey navigating the “potholes and curves” of her college career, including a battle with cancer. She shared the emotional story of ringing the bell to signal she was cancer-free in July 2024 and credited the IU community for helping her build hope through difficult times.
Jayvee Del Rosario, who spoke at the graduate ceremony, drew parallels between his own international journey from the Philippines and the historic rise of the IU football team, reminding peers that “where you’ve been doesn’t have to define where you’re going.”
The undergraduate ceremony featured the traditional pageantry of heraldic banners and academic regalia. The night reached its peak with the symbolic turning of the tassels, officially conferring degrees upon a class that IU President Pamela Whitten described as “dedicated” and “transformational.”
Despite the outdoor setting at Memorial Stadium, the weather held for the 8 p.m. start, allowing graduates to celebrate on the field where they had witnessed the school’s recent athletic championships.
For those who completed their requirements but could not attend, ceremonies were streamed live online and remain available for viewing at broadcast.iu.edu and the Indiana University Facebook page.
Looking ahead, the university has set a tentative date for Winter Commencement on Friday, December 18, 2026, at Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall for students completing their degrees during the fall semester.
The Class of 2026 now joins a global network of IU alumni, spanning all 92 Indiana counties, all 50 states, and over 130 countries.
