As Seen On Socials: SIUE Spring 2026 Commencement
Cap and gown season is here — and SIUE's social media channels are overflowing with pride, tears, and tassel-turning moments as the Class of 2026 walks across the stage.
Nearly 2,000 graduates were celebrated across six ceremonies held May 8–9 at the First Community Arena at the Vadalabene Center on the Edwardsville campus — from the School of Pharmacy and School of Nursing to the Graduate School, School of Engineering, School of Business, and the College of Arts and Sciences. Each ceremony brought its own energy, its own stories, and its own proud families cheering from the stands.
All ceremonies were livestreamed, welcoming friends and family near and far to share in the milestone moments. Across Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube, the feeds told the story beautifully — candid shots of graduates in full regalia, faculty marshals leading the processional, and the powerful and transformational moment of crossing the stage.
SIUE has now graduated more than 120,000 alumni since its founding, expanding from eight students in 1958 to eight schools offering more than 200 degree programs. This spring's class carries that legacy forward.
Congratulations to the Class of 2026. Your Cougar community could not be more proud.
View the Spring 2026 Commencement program and ceremony
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Photos by Howard Ash and Hunter Fridley
