Final details for Commencement 2026 🎓

Dear Graduating Student:

I am excited to celebrate with you at the university commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 2, at Folsom Field. 

Know before you go:

Safety and conduct
All graduates will pass through security screening when entering Folsom Field. 

  • As we gather for this wonderful tradition full of history, I implore you to uphold the Colorado Creed and the honor of the community that surrounds you.
  • To ensure a safe and fun commencement for all, graduates will be expected to abide by the Student Code of Conduct. Disruptions to the ceremony will not be permitted. 
  • The Folsom Field clear bag policy will be enforced. Please keep personal items to a minimum. 
  • No bottles or containers will be allowed in the student seating area. Learn more about permitted and prohibited items.
  • Listen carefully and follow any instructions from other officials and me. Commencement marshals will be available to assist.
  • In the event of an evacuation, please remain calm as you move away from the stadium. If you are seated on the field level, exit toward the Dal Ward Athletic Center through Gates 14 and 18.

Day-of information:

Arrival and parking
Review parking and on-campus transportation information ahead of time. Recommend to your guests that they arrive early. Parking is free on campus during commencement and recognition ceremony days, but it is limited.

Where to be

  • 7 to 8 a.m. Gather on Norlin Quad. Refreshments will be available for graduating students. Graduate students will line up near the Norlin steps. Undergraduates will line up in front of Woodbury and Old Main.
  • 8 a.m. Procession departs from Norlin Quad. 
  • 8 to 8:45 a.m. Students follow the procession to Folsom Field, pass through security and take seats. 
Norlin Quad Procession Line Up

Norlin Quad Procession Line Up

From Norlin Quad to Folsom Field
For the procession, undergraduates will follow the standard bearers Silver, Gold and Black and enter the stadium through Gates 14 or 18 on the north end. You will walk in a single-file line with your fellow graduates. Once you enter the stadium, make sure you are lined up with others and follow the directions of the commencement marshals in the yellow stoles.

Folsom Field Seating Map

The ceremony will begin as soon as all students are seated and will last approximately 90 minutes. Please stay seated for the recessional of the platform party.

Stay informed
Here’s where to go for day-of information and any last-minute updates: 

How to watch virtually 
If you or your guests can’t make it to the commencement ceremony, you can watch the livestream starting at 8:30 a.m. on the commencement website. The livestream will have captions in English and Spanish. English and Spanish versions of the digital-only commencement program will also be available on the commencement homepage.

After the commencement ceremony
Be sure your celebration plans include attending the recognition ceremony hosted by your college, school, department or program. Check with your academic unit for specific details. 

Congratulations!

Leigh Holman
Professor and Commencement Marshal