The general commencement ceremony at the University of Utah will be held Thursday, May 5, at 6:30 p.m. in the Jon M. Huntsman Center.
PHOTO CREDIT: The University of Utah
University of Utah class of 2016 by the numbers.
This year’s graduating class of 8,291 students represents 23 Utah counties, all 50 U.S. states and 92 countries. These numbers are based on data available prior to graduation and are subject to change.
“It is our top priority to help students succeed and find meaningful careers and futures,” said Ruth Watkins, senior vice president for Academic Affairs. “During the past few years, we have implemented a variety of programs, support services, academic communities and opportunities for students to participate in a range of experiences designed to help them stay on track to graduate in a timely manner and enter the workforce with skills that set them apart from their peers.”
Since it has implemented these programs, the U has seen its graduation rate steadily increase while maintaining the state’s lowest percentage of students graduating with loan debt.
General commencement is a campus-wide celebration open to all students, their families and the public. It is an opportunity for the institution to celebrate the graduating class and recognize student achievements. The evening’s program is designed with the graduates in mind and includes videos and multimedia, a collage of Instagram photos documenting the U experience of the class of 2016, as well as traditional elements of “pomp and circumstance” associated with graduation events.
“Commencement is the culmination of each student’s commitment, sacrifice, dedication and hard work,” said U President David W. Pershing. “It is also a tribute to those who stood behind our students to offer support as they worked toward this success. The university community proudly recognizes the class of 2016 and welcomes everyone to join us as we celebrate.”
Those unable to attend commencement will be able to watch the live stream on the university’s website, utah.edu, or watch the rebroadcast on KUED, channel 7, Saturday, May 7, at 5:30 p.m. MST. More information is available here.
