Main Commencement Ceremony Rescheduled to Thursday, May 21, 2026
Due to safety concerns related to the forecast for severe weather on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, the main Commencement ceremony will move to its planned alternative date on Thursday, May 21, 2026. The time of the processional and program will remain the same.
This change does not affect individual school and college ceremonies.
Main Commencement Ceremony Rescheduled to Thursday, May 21, 2026
Due to safety concerns related to the forecast for severe weather on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, the main Commencement ceremony will move to its planned alternative date on Thursday, May 21, 2026. The time of the processional and program will remain the same.
This change does not affect individual school and college ceremonies.
We understand that this change may be disruptive, but know that we have made this decision to prioritize safety and to provide the best possible experience for graduates and guests.
2026 Commencement Speaker
We are excited to announce the 2026 main ceremony commencement speaker, Dr. Jeanette Epps.
Commencement
The university will host its 2026 main commencement ceremony on Wednesday, May 20, 2026. The ceremony at SECU Stadium will feature remarks from our commencement speaker, Dr. Jeanette Epps, President Darryll J. Pines and distinguished guests.
Leading up to, during, and after commencement, graduates are encouraged to share their memories on social media using #UMDgrad. See Terps’ photos and reflections on Twitter and Instagram.
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Colleges and schools will host individual commencement ceremonies on May 19-22, 2026. These ceremonies will feature remarks from deans and announce the names of each graduate.
Shell-ebration Guide
Have Questions?
Scan this QR code to connect to the Shell-ebration Guide. You can also text "Hi" to 1.833.356.2356.
To see the ceremony dates for future years, visit the Academic Calendars website. The full schedule for 2026 individual school and college ceremonies has been released on commencement.umd.edu.
Graduates, please review this page so you and your guests can be ready for a celebratory evening at the main ceremony, where we will honor your accomplishments at the University of Maryland!
Graduates and family members are encouraged to submit photos commemorating their time at Maryland, by Friday, May 2nd, for a chance to be featured in the main commencement ceremony.