As graduation season at Columbia University gets underway, we're documenting it all right here. You'll find stories from the Class of 2026, photos from the celebrations, the latest on what to expect from Commencement and Class Days, and plenty of ways to soak it all in—whether you're a graduate, a proud family member, or just along for the ride.
We'll be updating throughout the weeks leading up to May 20. Congratulations, graduates! #Columbia2026
What You Need to Know
Ceremonies | Speakers | Honorands | Photo Spots
Unseasonable hot weather is expected on Commencement Day—come prepared with a water bottle and sunscreen. More details on this weather advisory.
It’s a Columbia tradition not to be missed: On the night of May 20, from sunset until 2:00 am (EDT), 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 for all of graduation week, from May 14 to May 24. Use CUCOMMENCEMENT26 at checkout for 15% off your trip to the top.
If you aren’t able to be there in person or get out and about to take your pictures, you can always observe the celebration of our grads on the Empire State Building Live Stream.
Graduate Stories
Our grads come into Columbia with incredible experience and prepare to walk the stage into a world they are incredibly well-equipped to change for the better. Here are a few of their stories. Share yours with us!
“My classmates come from every corner of the world, each with their own story and purpose. There’s an energy here that makes you want to do more and think bigger...”
Aziza Shuler (JRN’26) may be an Emmy Award-winning journalist who co-anchors Weekend Mornings on CBS News New York, but she is also a student at Columbia, about to graduate with her master’s degree from the Journalism School.
“Pulitzer believed in journalism that serves the public with honesty, depth, and purpose, and that spirit still lives in these halls,” Shuler said. “Every time I walk into class, I’m reminded that I’m carrying forward that tradition, and it pushes me to rise to the standard of excellence this school represents.”
Ryan Leone (VPS’26) is pursuing the U.S. military’s Health Professions Scholarship Program, which means that he’ll join the military as a physician as soon as he graduates. It’s a longtime goal of Leone’s, given his longstanding interest in how war and disaster affect soldiers and veterans’ bodies and minds.
AWARDS AND HONORS
Each year, Columbia recognizes students and faculty who make an outsized impact. Meet the Class of 2026's award winners and this year's honorees. This section will be updated as more awards are announced.
Columbia Commencement Through The Ages
University Commencement is a centuries-old tradition dating back to 1758! The University President presides over this historic moment when degrees are symbolically conferred en masse upon graduating students from Columbia’s nineteen schools, colleges, and affiliate institutions. Remarkable members of the Columbia community and special guests are recognized through the bestowal of medals, awards, and honorary degrees.
Did You Know It Takes 450+ Columbia Volunteers to Pull Off Commencement?
More than 20,000 people come to Columbia University’s Morningside Heights campus to experience the joy of Commencement day—a feat that would not be possible without the service of 450+ volunteers from within the Columbia community. With two ceremonies this year, the need is twice as great.
Make The Most of It
Even outside of official graduation and Commencement festivities, there are many ways to celebrate. Here are just a few resources.
The Best Books to Buy for Columbia Graduates
From the first volume of Barack Obama's presidential memoir to a collection of classic recipes by Jacques Pépin, these books by Columbia alumni are all terrific gift ideas during graduation season.
How to Entertain Your Family and Friends When They Come to Campus for Your Graduation
Consider some of these activities around New York City, some close to Columbia’s campus and some farther afield. Obviously, this is not a comprehensive list, but hopefully it will give you some helpful tips.
Shop & Dine Local This Commencement Season
There are tons of places near Columbia’s campus to find gifts, share a meal, and celebrate in style. Here’s a local dining and shopping guide, by neighborhood.
