At UC Berkeley’s 2026 commencement, grads reflected on an education defined by connection
UC Berkeley held its 2026 campuswide commencement at California Memorial Stadium, celebrating over 7,000 graduates in a ceremony marked by themes of connection and community. Chancellor Richard K. Lyons and keynote speaker Robert Reich emphasized the importance of empathy, bridge-building, and using a Berkeley education to address global challenges. Graduates, families, and speakers reflected on the transformative power of education and relationships formed during their time at the university.
- ▪More than 7,000 graduating students and 25,000 guests attended the 2026 UC Berkeley commencement at California Memorial Stadium.
- ▪Chancellor Richard K. Lyons urged graduates to prioritize connection over division and to serve as bridge-builders in a deeply divided society.
- ▪Keynote speaker Robert Reich, professor emeritus and former U.S. Secretary of Labor, encouraged graduates to use their education to drive positive change amid global challenges.
- ▪Graduates like Kennedy Haynes and Ryder Coble highlighted how their academic and personal experiences at Berkeley shaped their ambitions and sense of purpose.
- ▪The ceremony celebrated student achievements, individuality, and the enduring value of community and relationships formed during college.
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Campus news At UC Berkeley’s 2026 commencement, grads reflected on an education defined by connection More than 7,000 graduating students and 25,000 guests attended the campuswide ceremony at California Memorial Stadium. By Maya L. Kapoor, Anne Brice Previous Slide Next Slide At California Memorial Stadium, UC Berkeley's most recent grads celebrated their achievement. Ellie Sahand/UC Berkeley A sea of blue graduation robes and caps at campuswide commencement, ready to stand and be recognized. Ellie Sahand/UC Berkeley On a sunny, joyful day, families proudly supported their UC Berkeley grads Keegan Houser/UC Berkeley News Across the bleachers, students expressed their joy and individuality with creative cap decorations.
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