Class of 2026 Celebrates Success at University-wide Commencement

On Saturday, The University of Texas at Austin held its 143rd spring commencement ceremony in Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. Tens of thousands of family members and friends gathered to celebrate more than 17,000 graduates from across colleges and schools.

In his remarks, University President Jim Davis addressed the newest class of Texas Exes.

"Graduates, you arrived here as students, and you leave as alumni. But your journey with our University is far from over. As students, you have learned, you have formed lasting friendships, and you have discovered new things about yourself.

"It may be fair to say that you have changed. But here's what has not changed: You are Longhorns. You were yesterday, you are today, and you always will be.

"Always remember this: You and this University are forever connected. You are woven into the fabric of The University of Texas. And it is woven into you."

The keynote address was delivered by Colt McCoy, former Texas Longhorns quarterback, NFL veteran, and real estate and Texas higher education leader. McCoy was a two-time finalist for the Heisman Trophy while at UT and earlier this year was appointed to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, where he champions student success in public higher education statewide.

In his speech, McCoy offered three pieces of advice to the Class of 2026:

1. Build your life on something that lasts, even if it takes a little longer.
2. Start with the small things and stack wins each day.
3. Make the right choices, even when they're hard.

He also described what being a Longhorn and UT graduate means -- combining talent and hard work to change the world.

"What actually carried me forward in life wasn't my gifts. It was my choices. We celebrate talent, and we should. But character is built in the decisions that nobody claps for.

"You're graduating from the University of Texas. That is no small thing. What you've built here: your knowledge, your habits, your toughness, your fortitude, that's your foundation and your playbook. What starts here doesn't just stay here. It goes with you. Into every room, every relationship, every opportunity.

"Here's my point: Your gifts might open the door, but your choices will determine how far you go.

"There will be challenges and you'll face adversity … but we are built different at The University of Texas."

UT System Board of Regents Chairman Kevin Eltife echoed President Davis and McCoy's pride in the Class of 2026 with enthusiastic remarks.

"You have made us all incredibly proud as you are our hope for the future," he said.

Watch below for a full look at commencement, including remarks from 2025-26 student body president Hudson Thomas and president and chair of the Texas Exes, Arleas Kea.