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Best-of 2026 Commencement Week: Photo Round-up

University News
Catholic University of America graduation scene, May 16, 2026
A grand scene on the steps of the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception: Catholic University of America's 2026 Commencement exercises, May 16.
male graduates smile as they process into the commencement ceremony

Catholic University graduates, May 16, 2026

Commencement is the pinnacle of every academic year at Catholic University. And gathering on Saturday, May 16, 2026, to celebrate and honor more than 1500 graduates was one for the books! 

Here are few visual highlights of all the events that happened leading up to the graduation ceremonies, from the Nursing School pinning to Honors Convocation, Baccalaureate Mass, and the main grand event on May 16. Some of the best moments in photos from Patrick Ryan and Denny Henry.

Graduates at the Basilica for Honors Convocation. (Patrick Ryan/Catholic University)
Some graduates received special awards at the Honors Convocation.
Conway School of Nursing graduates celebrating before their Pinning Ceremony .(Patrick Ryan/Catholic University)
Excited graduates before the Baccalaureate Mass at the Basilica on Friday, May 15. (Patrick Ryan/Catholic University)
So much to celebrate at Commencement! Graduates waiting for their school/college to be presented to the President for degree recommendation. (Patrick Ryan/Catholic University)
Graduates and friends anticipate the great procession in to Commencement. (Patrick Ryan/Catholic University)
Proud graduates of the Class of 2026 process in for Commencement ceremony. (Patrick Ryan/Catholic University)
Colorful and creative designs and messages on many graduates' caps (Photo: Denny Henry)
Commencement Day was filled with sunshine -- and customized Class of 2026 shades! (Patrick Ryan/Catholic University)
Monsignor James P. Shea, alumnus of Catholic University, was the keynote speaker at this year's ceremony. (Patrick Ryan/Catholic University)
President Kilpatrick and Cardinal Robert McElroy (University Chancellor) process out with honorary guests, after the ceremony concludes. (Photo: Denny Henry)
Graduate student-athletes, celebrating the great day together. (Patrick Ryan/Catholic University)
Jubilant scene, May 16, 2026 Catholic University Commencement. (Patrick Ryan/Catholic University)
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