Post-Commencement Message to Faculty & Staff

Dear colleagues,

Last Friday I was proud to confer nearly 10,000 degrees as we celebrated our newest Wildcat alumni in front of their families and supporters, and colleagues from across campus for the University of Arizona’s 162nd Commencement. I was honored to share in their joy and applaud their success during the most meaningful night of the year for us.

An event of this magnitude, where over 40,000 members of our Wildcat community gathered, takes months of meticulous planning and coordination. Colleagues from every corner of the university contributed their time and talent to bring this celebration to life for the Class of 2026. I am deeply grateful to our event planners, staff, and many volunteers, whose dedication on-site and behind the scenes gave our graduates the memorable evening they deserved.

This highlights video offers a glimpse of our annual celebration. Videos, photos, graduate stories, and much more are available on the university’s Commencement site.

As we reflect on this academic year and prepare for the next, I want to acknowledge your commitment to our North Star, success for every student, and your service in achieving our land-grant mission. Whether inside or outside of the classroom, you each take part in the learning experience of our students and the Bear Down spirit that defines us.

Your contributions each make an impact and together add up to something remarkable: curious, resilient Wildcats who go into the world ready to make a difference and be a force for good.

As Arizona’s land-grant institution, our work is never finished. I look forward to what we will accomplish together as we continue to pursue our strategic imperatives and deliver on our promise.

Best wishes,

Suresh