Dear colleagues,
As we approach the end of the academic year and prepare for our upcoming commencement celebrations, we would like to share an important update regarding the future structure of our ceremonies, starting next year.
The University of Oregon remains committed to upholding the core values that define our commencement experience: delivering a high-quality and memorable celebration for our graduates and their families, providing a seamless student experience, ensuring the safety of all participants, promoting accessibility, and optimizing the use of our resources and volunteer efforts.
In alignment with these values, beginning in 2026, we will be transitioning to a consolidated, one-day commencement celebration, on the Monday following finals week. The School of Law’s commencement, held each year in mid-May, will remain unchanged.
In addition to the university’s main commencement celebration, all schools and colleges will hold a primary ceremony to recognize their respective graduates.
Because the College of Arts and Sciences is our largest college, and in the past has had multiple, smaller ceremonies, we have asked Dean Chris Poulsen to collaborate with his college community early in the fall to determine the most effective implementation for CAS, with either a single college-wide ceremony or three divisional ceremonies.
This new format across all our colleges will make full use of three primary venues: Matthew Knight Arena, Autzen Stadium, and a third location to be announced.
Furthermore, we are excited to introduce a centralized celebration experience for our students — GradFest.
Following the main UO commencement ceremony, graduates and their families will be invited to visit the GradFest zone in the area around Autzen Stadium for the rest of the day. This will feature large reception spaces organized by school or college, where students can connect with faculty and staff, providing opportunities for photos and meaningful interactions with the people who have supported them on their journey.
Additional information about GradFest will be shared over the coming year, as well as opportunities for faculty and staff to provide input that will help shape the experience.
We appreciate your continued support and look forward to working together to create a meaningful and inclusive celebration for our graduates.
Warm regards,
Christopher P. Long
Provost and Sr. Vice President
Angela Lauer Chong
Vice President for Student Life