UC Riverside concluded its 71st Commencement season on June 17, with UCR’s Class of 2025 walking at eight discipline- or degree-based ceremonies. Approximately 6,100 graduates, 35,000 in-person guests, 32,000 online streamers, and about 375 volunteer staff participated in the celebrations, which started on June 6. This remarkable turnout reflects the growing pride in UCR’s achievements and the strength of the Highlander community.
Highlanders belonging to specific groups also took part in additional micro celebrations organized by various student resources like the University Honors Cording, and year-end celebrations hosted by UCR’s ethnic and gender centers. These cultural and academic celebrations highlight UCR’s commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and recognition of individual student experiences. Many families and friends traveled long distances to join these events, further reinforcing the importance of Commencement as both a personal milestone and a community-wide celebration.
The ceremonies began with a video compilation of student experiences, a graduate procession to “Pomp and Circumstance,” a faculty and staff procession led by UCR’s Pipe Band, the Star-Spangled Banner, and a Native American land acknowledgment. Each of these elements reflected UCR’s dedication to tradition, respect for history, and acknowledgment of the land and people who shaped the community.
The program continued with introductions by deans, a welcome from Chancellor Kim Wilcox, words from elected student speakers, industry keynotes, the reading of graduate names, the singing of UCR’s Alma Mater “Hail Fair UCR,” tassel turning, and, finally, a joyful recession. Scotty the Bear, UCR’s beloved mascot, also made appearances throughout the ceremonies, mingling with guests and providing memorable photo opportunities.
This year marked a notable shift in regalia, with the Highlander Class of 2025 debuting blue caps and gowns—a vibrant change from the traditional black regalia worn by previous graduates. The new regalia symbolized a fresh chapter for UCR, visually uniting the class under a shared identity and energizing the celebrations with a bold look.
Commencement 2025 was also especially significant as it marked the final ceremonies for Chancellor Kim Wilcox, who is stepping down after more than a decade of service. UCR’s Class of 2025 diplomas were the last to feature his signature, giving graduates a unique place in the university’s history. His leadership has guided UCR through growth in research, student success initiatives, and national recognition. On July 15, Chancellor-delegate S. Jack Hu will assume his position, ushering in a new era of leadership for the Highlander community.
The festivities not only celebrated academic achievement but also recognized resilience, perseverance, and the bonds students formed throughout their time at UCR. For many graduates, the ceremonies served as the culmination of years of hard work, late nights of study, internships, community engagement, and friendships that will last a lifetime.
Families, faculty, and staff joined in congratulating graduates as they embark on careers, further studies, and new life chapters. The energy across campus reflected both pride in the past and excitement for the future. Watch all ceremony recordings at commencement.ucr.edu. And if you haven't already, don’t forget to sign Highlander Class of 2025 Yearbook to leave your mark on UCR’s history.
Congratulations, Class of 2025!
Commencement at the Toyota Arena Photo Album
Reception at the School of Business Photo Album