Stony Brook University’s 66th Commencement Ceremony Celebrates the Class of 2026

Members of Stony Brook University’s Class of 2026 tossed their caps high into the air to celebrate the completion of one journey and the beginning of another at the 66th Main Commencement Ceremony, held May 22 at Kenneth P. LaValle Stadium.

Stony Brook University President Andrea Goldsmith told the 7,570 graduates that the best part of being Stony Brook’s president is the privilege of getting to know its “outstanding, compassionate and grateful students.”

“You have shown us what you are capable of. You inspire us with your brilliance, creativity, hard work and tenacity. You give us hope as the future leaders across academia, industry, government and non-profits,” Goldsmith said. “You have left an enduring and uplifting impression on all members of our university community. You deserve to be celebrated as the newest generation of Seawolf graduates!”

Students from this year’s graduating class were awarded a combined 7,640 degrees and certificate completions; some students received more than one degree. There were 4,575 bachelor’s degrees bestowed to graduates, along with 2,150 master’s degrees, 620 doctoral and professional degrees and 295 certificates.

The Class of 2026, which includes students from 65 countries and 41 states, officially joined the ranks of more than 237,000 Stony Brook University alumni. 

Goldsmith, presiding over her first commencement after recently celebrating her inauguration as Stony Brook’s seventh president, told the graduates that Stony Brook will always be their home, a place that will remain with them no matter where their path leads. “We look forward to seeing all that you will achieve, and the profound impact you will have in the years ahead,” Goldsmith said. “With your outstanding Stony Brook education and the extraordinary Seawolf culture and spirit you will always carry, we know that you will  change our world for the better.”

Under sunny and windy skies, University Senate President and Grand Marshal Brenda Anderson officially convened the commencement ceremony and introduced Wanmei Zhang of the Department of Music, who sang the National Anthem, accompanied by the Spirit of Stony Brook Marching Band.

New York State Governor Kathy Hochul delivered a video message of congratulations to the graduates, followed in person by New York State Assembly Speaker and Stony Brook University alumnus Carl Heastie ’90, who told graduates two stories — about not taking the easy way out and how you are never great alone.

“If you do believe in yourself, there is nothing you cannot achieve. As long as you are always your number one supporter, you will never go wrong,” Heastie said. “I’m so proud of you.”

Sebastian Adams, Undergraduate Student Government Vice President for Student Life, announced that the Senior Class Gift collected donations totaling just over $7,800 from 520 donors.

Vice President of Student Affairs Rick Gatteau introduced student speaker Zachary Don, who graduated with a BS in clinical laboratory sciences in the School of Health Professions. Don thanked members of the Stony Brook community who have helped the Class of 2026 get to where they are today.

“We have witnessed a time of undeniable growth here at Stony Brook, and I am excited to see what the future has in store,” Don said, noting that in just the last four years, Stony Brook has enjoyed remarkable achievements and has seen incredible growth in its number of students.

Don then issued a challenge to his fellow graduates. “I dare you to be the change you want to see in the world.”

Stony Brook Alumni Association President Neil H. Butterklee recalled meeting his wife in the Stony Brook campus gymnasium, an example of how the most meaningful connections in life happen when you least expect them. “Stay connected to the community you helped build, and stay connected to the place that helped shape you: Stony Brook,” he said.

The Stony Brook Vocalists sang the university’s alma mater, “Sandy Shore,” followed by Celia Marshik, dean of The Graduate School, who began the formal presentation of candidates, beginning with the doctoral candidates and master’s degree recipients.

Provost Carl Lejuez presented the undergraduate honors candidates, followed by the university deans presenting candidates in each of the following colleges and schools: School of Nursing, School of Social Welfare, School of Health Professions, School of Professional Development, School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences, School of Communication and Journalism, College of Business, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, and the College of Arts and Sciences.

Goldsmith then provided the conferral of degrees, concluding the ceremony in front of hundreds of family, friends and other members of the Stony Brook community.

“All of you are now graduates of Stony Brook University, the number one public university in the great state of New York,” Goldsmith proclaimed. “Congratulations, Seawolves!”

-Photos by John Griffin