³ÉÈË´óƬ

As part of Commencement activities, the University of New England recognized the accomplishments of its graduates at individual college graduation ceremonies on Friday, May 15.

While the seven college ceremonies vary, each honors the academic achievements of the Class of 2026 and features the presentation of awards and other distinctions. At the ceremonies, students cross the stage to receive recognition and congratulations from the college dean, obtain their diploma holder, and have pictures taken.

Graduate ceremonies bestow special recognition for master’s and doctoral degree students by showcasing the placement of the hoods on the graduates, signifying their success in completing the graduate program. For many participants, the ceremony symbolizes the culmination of graduate studies and the degree recipient’s transition from student to colleague.

Each college graduation ceremony is similar to the University Commencement Ceremony in that it includes a processional and a recessional, and graduates/faculty are dressed in academic regalia. While the college ceremonies are significant, they do not replace the University Commencement Ceremony. The University Commencement Ceremony, held on Saturday, May 16, included all undergraduate and graduate students with full pomp and circumstance and will officially confer the degrees of the Class of 2026.