Hats off to our newest alumni as they mark their final chapter at the University of Denver.
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On June 14, the University of Denver celebrated a major milestone as more than 1,600 undergraduates took part in commencement ceremonies. With the largest graduating class in DU history, the University hosted two undergraduate ceremonies—and introduced a new tradition: the class’s chosen song, “Bittersweet Symphony,” played on the campus carillon as as DU’s newest alumni made their way out of Magness Arena.
Students crossed the stage to cheers from stands packed full of proud families and friends. The moment marked not just the end of a college journey, but the beginning of what comes next.
Commencement speaker Cassie Boggs (BA ’77, JD ’81), a DU alumna and global leader in the mining industry, offered graduates three pieces of advice: stay open to possibility, communicate effectively, and always lead with kindness.
From joyful celebrations to reflective moments, here are our favorite photos from a weekend filled with DU pride, community, and new beginnings.
Photography by Dave Pavlina
Smiles and celebration as graduates cross Asbury Avenue. Soon-to-be graduates streamed in from all sides of campus in the lead-up to the morning ceremony.
From first-year walks to final steps—many graduates took this tunnel to class on their first day at DU. On commencement day, they walked through it toward what’s next.
“Somebody in there really likes pink. She doesn’t know we’re doing it, but she’ll know it’s us as soon as she sees it.” One family waits in line for commencement, adorned in matching pink cowboy hats to surprise their graduate.
Dressed in caps and gowns and with spirits high, graduates make their way up the steps toward commencement. One waves her student ID—perhaps the last time she’ll carry it as a student.
A graduate takes last-minute phone calls outside, negotiating ticket details and making sure family and friends can join the celebration.
In a quiet moment before the ceremony, two graduates help fix a friend’s cap—one last show of teamwork before crossing the stage together.
Between the two ceremonies, more than 1,600 students crossed the stage, making the Class of 2025 one of DU’s largest-ever graduating classes.
With the diploma in hand and a soft smile, a graduate points toward the stands—sharing a moment of celebration with someone who cheered him on.
One graduate’s family was in line early, ready to claim front-row seats, and when she walked past with diploma in hand, they made every second count—cheering, snapping photos, and soaking in a moment four years in the making.
On commencement, many graduates are cheered on by family and friends—but also the faculty who guided, challenged, and believed in them along the way.
They didn’t walk—they launched. A mid-air hug between fraternity brothers said, ‘We made it,’ louder than any cheer.
