On Wednesday, May 20, tens of thousands of students, friends, family, faculty, staff, and alumni will gather on Morningside campus to celebrate the Class of 2026.
The Graduate ceremony begins at 10:30 am, and the Undergraduate ceremony begins at 5:00 pm. You can catch the livestream on the Commencement website.
As students, families, and friends gather across Morningside campus to celebrate this year’s graduation, we invited members of the Class of 2026 to pause, look back, and share moments that defined their time here.
From climate activists to artists and championship-winning athletes, here are some of the many fascinating students who are graduating from our University.
The mace—a silver-plated cudgel adorned with acanthus leaves—features prominently in Columbia’s Commencement ceremonies. This year, professors Kristina Guild Douglass and Michel Sadelain will serve as mace bearers.
Whether you are a graduate or a guest, follow these simple instructions on what to bring, what not to bring, and how to get on campus. Still have questions? Check out the FAQ page.
Don’t Miss a Columbia Blue Empire State Building
It’s a Columbia tradition not to be missed: On the night of May 20, from sunset until 2:00 am, the top of New York’s iconic Empire State Building will light up in blue to honor Columbia’s graduates. Here’s where to take the best pictures with it!
New this year: The Empire State Building invites Columbia students and families to enjoy the iconic history and New York City’s best views from its 86th-floor observation deck through May 24. Use CUCOMMENCEMENT26 at checkout for 15% off your trip to the top.
