Four thousand students at the University of Florida will graduate over five ceremonies this coming December 11 and 12. The events will take place at the Exactech Arena at the Stephen C. O’Connell Center in Gainesville.
The first ceremony kicks off on Friday at 2 p.m., honoring 265 doctoral graduates. Later that evening, at 7 p.m., students from various colleges including Agriculture, Medicine, and Nursing will be celebrated for their degrees.
On Saturday, the ceremonies begin at 9 a.m. with graduates from the College of Journalism and Communications and the Warrington College of Business. The second ceremony on Saturday afternoon at 2 p.m. will feature graduates from the Colleges of Design, Construction, Planning, and Liberal Arts and Sciences. Finally, at 7 p.m. on Saturday, graduates from the Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering and College of Education will complete the commencement activities.
This fall’s graduates are a diverse group, representing 73 countries and all six continents. Interim UF President Donald Landry will address the ceremonies.
Education today is rapidly evolving. With the increase in online learning, how students experience graduation has changed too. According to a recent survey by Education Corner, over 70% of students now see virtual ceremonies as an acceptable alternative, especially since the pandemic shifted many traditional events online. For many, this has opened doors to global participation, allowing family and friends from afar to celebrate together virtually.
As graduation approaches, students are reflecting on their journeys. Social media buzzes with hashtags like #GatorGrad, where students share their excitement, outfits, and plans post-graduation. It’s a moment of achievement, hope, and transition.
For more details on this year’s commencement, visit UF’s commencement page.
