As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, Cornell’s Class of 2026 has the tenacity, talent and determination to advance the unfinished work of American democracy, President Michael I. Kotlikoff told graduates and their guests at Commencement ceremonies held May 23.“Today we graduate our 158th graduating class with the most ambitious of goals and the most democratic of aspirations: to build a country and a world that is better for everyone who lives in it,” Kotlikoff said.
Students processed from the Arts Quad to Schoellkopf Field.
Degrees were conferred on more than 8,000 new graduates at two lively but rainy ceremonies held in Schoellkopf Field. Wearing rain ponchos and carrying umbrellas, graduates cheered, danced and posed for photos as they processed into the field behind the banners of their colleges; a few intrepid graduates sported sunglasses. “Nothing dampens the spirit of the mighty Class of 2026,” said University Marshal Kathryn Boor. Provost Kavita Bala welcomed attendees with encouragement to embrace engagement and connection.“You leave Cornell at a time of rapid and unpredictable change. It is also a time of extraordinary opportunity, a chance to shape an interconnected world in meaningful ways,” Bala said. “Your path will almost certainly look different than what you envision today in a year, or 10, and you may find yourself in entirely different fields – perhaps ones that do not yet exist. What you have learned here at Cornell will serve you through all of these life changes. I wish you joy, purpose and adventure in your journey.”
