UC Riverside concluded its 70th Commencement season on June 18, 2024, with 896 graduates from the UCR School of Business proudly walking across the stage at the Toyota Arena in Ontario. This milestone moment was part of a campus-wide celebration of UCR’s Class of 2024, which participated in a total of eight discipline- or degree-based ceremonies. Altogether, more than 6,000 graduates were recognized in front of cheering audiences, marking one of the largest and most significant events in the university’s history.
The scale of Commencement highlighted the importance of the occasion. Over 40,000 in-person guests gathered to honor the achievements of their family members and friends, while an additional 40,000 tuned in virtually to stream the ceremonies online. The success of the season also depended on the support of approximately 350 volunteer staff who dedicated their time to ensure the events ran smoothly from beginning to end.
Each ceremony followed a carefully crafted program designed to reflect tradition while honoring the individuality of the graduating class. Proceedings opened with a celebratory video compilation showcasing student experiences and accomplishments during their time at UC Riverside. Graduates then processed to the familiar and inspiring strains of “Pomp and Circumstance,” followed by a faculty procession led by UCR’s iconic Pipe Band. A pre-recorded orchestral rendition of the National Anthem and a Native American land acknowledgment set the tone of inclusivity, recognition, and respect.
Chancellor Kim A. Wilcox extended a heartfelt welcome, acknowledging the dedication of the Class of 2024 and recognizing the families, faculty, and staff who supported the graduates along the way. Deans from each school introduced their graduates, while elected student speakers delivered powerful and personal messages on behalf of their peers. These speeches served as a reflection of the resilience, creativity, and determination of the graduating class.
One of the most meaningful portions of the program was the reading of graduate names as students crossed the stage. Families and friends cheered as each name was called, symbolizing years of hard work and perseverance. The ceremonies also included the singing of UC Riverside’s alma mater, “Hail Fair UCR,” which united the audience and participants in school spirit. Graduates then turned their tassels to mark their official transition from students to alumni before recessing as newly minted members of the Highlander alumni community. Adding a lighthearted and memorable touch, Scotty the Bear, UCR’s beloved mascot, appeared in a graduation gown to celebrate alongside the students.
UCR BUSINESS Commencement Program (PDF)
Beyond the main ceremonies, the Class of 2024 was also honored at micro celebrations organized by various student resource centers. These events highlighted the diversity and inclusivity of the UCR community. Graduates participated in Honor’s Cording, African Student Program’s Black Grad, Chicano Student Program’s Raza Grad, and the Women’s Resource Center’s Family Grad. For the first time in UCR history, the Asian Pacific Student Program hosted an AAPI Grad, expanding representation and recognition for Asian American and Pacific Islander students. These smaller, identity-based ceremonies created spaces for cultural expression, community support, and recognition of the unique journeys students undertook during their time at UCR.
Commencement 2024 was not only a celebration of academic achievement but also a testament to UC Riverside’s commitment to tradition, diversity, and community. By blending large-scale university ceremonies with intimate, identity-centered celebrations, UCR ensured that every graduate could see themselves reflected in the festivities. The 70th Commencement season reaffirmed the university’s dedication to honoring the achievements of all Highlanders, sending graduates into the world with pride, confidence, and the support of the UCR community.
Congratulations, Class of 2024!
Commencement at the Toyota Arena Photo Album
Reception at the UCR barn Photo Album