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Commencement

Spalding University’s commencement tradition began when Henry Clay presented a diploma to the first graduate of Nazareth Academy, founded and operated by the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth. Today, commencement is a celebration of the hard work and dedication of our students to obtain their degrees. Typically, Commencement takes place the first Saturday of June each year. For our 2024 Celebration, we will host a series of smaller, in-person ceremonies by academic discipline on Thursday, May 30; Friday, May 31; and Saturday, June 1. See more details about this year’s ceremony, including schedules, livestream links and graduate information. Or you can watch a recap of Commencement 2021 Ceremonies.

PsyD students in regalia take selfie at graduation
Graduates of Class of 1924

1924

Spalding graduated its first class from the Louisville campus.

Spalding graduate in cap and gown blowing confetti towards camera.

Ceremony Schedule

Our commencement ceremonies are open to our undergraduate and graduate degree recipients. Doors will open 45 minutes before the start of each scheduled ceremony. Guests should check in with one of the clerks stationed in the entry lobby, and ushers will direct them to available seating. Graduates will walk at the ceremony listed for their academic discipline and can contact their academic advisor or program director with any questions.

Thursday, May 30th

4:00 PM
School of Social Work
Columbia Gym Auditorium

View Live Stream

6:00 PM
Reception for Honored Guests
College Street Cafe

Friday, May 31st

1:00 PM
School of Business + School of Liberal Arts + School of Criminal Justice Studies
Columbia Gym Auditorium

View Live Stream

4:00 PM
School of Professional Psychology
Columbia Gym Auditorium

View Live Stream

6:00 PM
Naslund-Mann Graduate School of Writing
The Brown Hotel

Saturday, June 1st

1:00 PM
College of Education + School of Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Columbia Gym Auditorium

View Live Stream

4:00 PM
Kosair for Kids College of Health & Natural Sciences (Athletic Training, Health Science, Natural Science, & Nursing)
Columbia Gym Auditorium

View Live Stream

Student Arrival & Assembly

Graduates should report directly to the Columbia Gym building (824 S. 4th Street) no later than 45 minutes before the start of their scheduled ceremony. Students will assemble in the gym, which is next to the auditorium. This will allow ample time for you to get into line for the procession. Be sure to bring your cap and gown.

To ask questions about accessibility or to request accommodations for commencement, please contact Katherine Walker-Payne at (502) 873-4192 or [email protected]. At least two weeks’ advance notice will help us to provide seamless access.