Photo gallery: Cheers to our spring 2026 graduates

The University of Iowa celebrated a weekend full of smiles, cheers, happy tears, and plenty of black-and-gold pride as thousands of Hawkeyes crossed the stage during spring 2026 commencement ceremonies.

Graduates from across Iowa, the country, and around the world gathered with family, friends, faculty, and staff to celebrate years of hard work and perseverance. Throughout the weekend, campus was filled with hugs and high-fives outside Carver-Hawkeye Arena and Hancher Auditorium, and photo sessions on the Pentacrest.

This year's graduating class included future health care providers, teachers, artists, scientists, business leaders, and public servants - many of whom balanced academics with research, internships, clinical experiences, student leadership, performances, and jobs during their time at Iowa.

You played an important role in helping these students reach this milestone. From mentoring and advising to teaching and encouragement, the support students received across campus helped make commencement weekend possible.

Enjoy these images by photographers Kirk Murray and Justin Torner.