The University of Georgia marked its spring Commencement for the Class of 2026 on May 8, with undergraduate and graduate ceremonies that celebrated student achievements and looked ahead to future challenges and opportunities.
The event is significant as it represents a major milestone for students, recognizing years of academic effort while also preparing them for the changes that come after graduation. The ceremonies included remarks from keynote speakers who reflected on overcoming obstacles, adapting to change, and the enduring value of education.
DJ Shockley, former UGA and Atlanta Falcons quarterback as well as Emmy Award-winning sports director for FOX 5, addressed undergraduates about navigating both expected and unexpected changes. “Let me congratulate you on what is a tremendous achievement — one that does not come without tons of hard work, dedication and real discipline,” Shockley said. He spoke about personal growth through discomfort: “Growth happens when you’re uncomfortable,” Shockley said. “Embrace the change ahead.” He encouraged graduates to learn from setbacks: “You never know what situation you’re in, good or bad, that could lead to an opportunity later in life… Every stop in your life has a benefit or a lesson you can learn from.” He also reminded students to value authenticity: “Who you are means so much more than you think… That first impression, you can never get back… because that will be how people will remember you.”
Undergraduate student speaker Blake Witmer described graduation as both joyful and bittersweet. “We’ve loved late nights at Snelling… So, of course, leaving hurts,” Witmer said. She emphasized adaptability learned during their time at UGA: “If there is one thing that our years here at the University of Georgia have taught us, it is that one of the only true constants in life will be change… And yet every time we adapted. We figured it out. We always do.” Music therapy graduate Marianna Baccus performed “Georgia on My Mind,” marking another memorable moment during the ceremony.
Meg Amstutz, dean of Morehead Honors College and keynote speaker for graduate ceremonies held May 7 at Stegeman Coliseum, spoke about higher education’s role in changing perspectives: “Your curiosity… all these will sustain you as a lifelong learner,” Amstutz said. She highlighted how advanced study enables graduates to impact society: “As candidates for advanced degrees… Your lives will forever be changed by the instruction you have received.” She concluded by reflecting on future possibilities: “In this room with you today are fellow graduates who will change the way you and I see the world — the way we communicate, teach, serve… Who knows where your own journey will take you?”
This year’s ceremonies saw degrees conferred upon 9,477 students by UGA President Jere W. Morehead—including undergraduates completing their studies in spring or summer sessions along with nearly two thousand graduate students (274 doctoral candidates; 1,611 master’s or specialist degrees). Posthumous degrees were awarded to four individuals across several disciplines.
President Morehead addressed graduates with words highlighting tradition and responsibility: “You go forth today as an ambassador of one of the nation’s most prominent land-grant institutions… You are leaving here with the capacity to shape the future… We expect uncommon things from you because you are a graduate of the University of Georgia.” A total of 171 First Honor Graduates were recognized for maintaining perfect cumulative grade point averages throughout their college careers.
