Columbia Graduation 2025

One of the most celebratory rites of spring is graduation season. Here at Columbia that means School Ceremonies, Student Celebrations, and University Commencement.

We invite you to join the fun and commemorate the graduates in the Class of 2025 by sharing your memories and photos.

Here you'll find graduate stories and pictures, trivia and tips, and the latest updates on what to expect from this year's various celebrations. We'll be updating this page in the lead up to the big day, Commencement 2025 on May 21.

If you're looking for logistical information, the schedule of ceremonies, and more, please click the button below to visit the full Commencement website.

Congratulations #Columbia2025 graduates!

Graduate Stories

Throughout graduation season, we'll be updating this space with the personal stories of the Class of 2025 from across the University.

Anyieth Philip Ayuen
Anyieth Philip Ayuen CCS'25

From a young age, Anyieth Philip Ayuen dreamed about what he could do to reduce the impacts of climate-induced disasters.

Samia Breir
Samia Breir SPS'25

For Samia Breir, coming to Columbia was about “being in the right place at the right time with the right people.”

Pippa Tsuki Carlson ’25
Pippa Tsuki Carlson BC’25

Pippa Tsuki Carlson, a native Californian who didn’t just make New York her home, she found community and inspiration for what makes cities work.

Simmi Chan CC'25
Simmi Chan CC'25

Columbia Squash champion Simmi Chan recommends catching a Broadway show, and perhaps an opera as well.

Aman Choudhri
Aman Choudhri CC'25

The Core Curriculum led Aman Choudhri to his new life as a “policy wonk." Columbia Bhangra made him a dancer.

Lucy Corthell
Lucy Corthell SEAS'25

Lucy Corthell's cross-country journey led her to a passion for climate reform.

Sara Gomez Horta
Sara Gomez Horta SIPA'25

Sara Gomez Horta helps young Latinas plan for their financial futures.

Ava Kamdem
Ava Kamdem GS'25

As a formerly incarcerated survivor of human trafficking, education was the freedom Ava Kamdem needed—and then became her most powerful card to play.

Kathryn Lampo
Kathryn Lampo SEAS'25

Kathryn Lampo, a mechanical engineer and member of the Columbia Space Initiative, is living out a lifelong dream.

Angelic Estrella Molos
Angelic Estrella Molos BC'25

Reflecting on her time at Barnard, Molos said she was drawn to the College for the women’s, gender, and sexuality studies program.

Marilyne Njuraita
Marilyne Njuraita SSW'25

Marilyne Njuraita chose Columbia because it has one of the oldest schools of social work in the U.S.

Cody O'Ferrall
Cody O'Ferrall SEAS'25

Cody O’Ferrall worked as a fisherman in Alaska. Now he's building a boat to clear urban ponds of algae.

Olivia Palma and a Shipibo elder
Olivia Palma CCS'25

Olivia Palma is a bridge between communities in Latin America, policymakers, and funders who are collaborating on preservation and economic opportunities.

Patrick Passalacqua
Patrick Passalacqua SEAS'25

From the classroom to the field, devoted student-athlete Patrick Passalacqua has balanced achievement and athletics.

Amalia Oliva Rojas
Amalia Oliva Rojas SOA'25

Through her work as a playwright, Amalia Oliva Rojas gives voice to immigrants and women of color.

Gerardo Rios Garcia
Gerardo Rios Garcia SPS'25

For SPS student Gerardo Rios Garcia, the future is looking bright, and sustainable.

Johnny Sturgeon
Johnny Sturgeon JRN'25

Johnny Sturgeon went from building a houseboat to maritime reporting.

Pablo Torres Rey
Pablo Torres Rey CC'25

Pablo Torres Rey is majoring in Economics-Mathematics with a concentration in German Literature and Cultural History. 

Anika Tsapatsaris
Anika Tsapatsaris GSAPP'25

Anika Tsapatsaris has spent eight years at Columbia, relishing every moment.

Lina Maria Villegas
Lina Maria Villegas CCS'25

Lina Maria Villegas, a Columbia student and NASA research assistant, seeks a common language between science and policy.

Kegan Vosteen
Kegan Vosteen SEAS'25

Kegan Vosteen is set to graduate with the inaugural class of the MBAxMS Engineering program.

Ann Wang
Ann Wang SOA'25

Film and Media Studies graduate student Ann Wang has found her passion and her future at Columbia and in New York City.

Brian Williams
Brian Williams GS'25

Marine Corps veteran, political science major, and MilVets Vice President Brian Williams on learning through leading.

Yaniv Yatziv
Yaniv Yatziv BUS'25

Yaniv Yatziv is interested in the intersection of sports, business, and technology.

Embrace the rare gift of learning at the intersection of rigorous scholarship and vibrant city life—challenge ideas, but never lose your curiosity or kindness in the process.

— Siran Wang (SPS'25) shared this advice for the next generation of Columbians in "We Asked, You Shared: Columbia Graduation Memories in Photos and Advice"

Video Vignettes

What is your favorite place in New York?
Where Is Your Favorite Place in New York?

Take a moment to hear from some of our graduates as they share their excitement about welcoming loved ones to New York City and marking this incredible milestone together.

Who would you like to thank?
Who Would You Like to Thank for Your Time at Columbia?

Who are you thankful for from your time at Columbia? That professor who taught you something new? That friend you made your first year? A staff member who helped you find your way? Your parents?

Are your friends and family looking forward to commencement?
Are Your Friends and Family Looking Forward to Commencement?

Take a listen to some of our graduating students who are excited to host their families in New York and walk across the stage to receive their degree.

Empire State Building. The Empire State Building image® is a registered trademark of ESRT Empire State Building, L.L.C. and is used with permission.

Look Up on Commencement Night

On May 21, from sunset to 2:00 AM, the Empire State Building will shine blue to honor our graduates. The Empire State Building welcomes graduates to get tickets to celebrate the lighting up close on the 86th floor of the ESB's NYC Observatory Deck.

And, of course, you can also take in the skyline to celebrate the Class of 2025 with all of New York City. Don't miss our tips on where to take the best pictures!

2025 Honorands and Awardees

Every year, during the many celebrations of graduation week, Columbia recognizes those whose achievements and service embody the University’s highest values. A few are noted here. Visit the Commencement website to see the full list.

Find Your Way

Here's a handy map of our Morningside campus to help orient yourself for Commencement Day on May 21. To plan your graduation week travel and find directions, additional maps, and parking suggestions, visit the Commencement website.