University of Colorado

This past Saturday, May 2, 2026, under crystal-clear Boulder skies at Folsom Field, the University of Colorado Boulder celebrated one of the largest graduating classes in its history.

A remarkable 10,198 graduates earned 10,613 degrees during the university’s 150th anniversary year. An estimated 40,000 family members, friends, and supporters filled the stadium, creating a moment that felt both deeply personal and historic.

The Class of 2026 now joins the Forever Buffs family, more than 588,000 strong.

It’s a perfect moment to reflect, celebrate, and step forward with renewed motivation.

Words That Will Stick for a Lifetime

Boulder native Kristin Davis delivered a keynote that resonated far beyond the stadium.

“Take this moment in. You have formed powerful bonds through your experience here at this beautiful university at the feet of the Rocky Mountains. You have worked hard. I’m pretty sure you have played hard, as well. Know that you are ready for the next chapter.”

Her message was simple and powerful: pause, appreciate, and trust that you are ready.

Chancellor Justin Schwartz reinforced that idea with a forward-looking challenge:

“My deepest hope for you is that your growth does not stop today. The world ahead will keep changing, and the choices you make to keep learning and adapting will shape your path forward.”

Senior Class Council Director Ally Young captured the moment with a message that perfectly fits this transition:

“There’s no Google Maps to guide us toward our destinations post-graduation. Open your eyes and chart the map for yourself. Sko Buffs.”

What Boulder Teaches You If You’re Paying Attention

You’ve already lived it.

Late nights at Norlin Library.
Sunrise hikes through Chautauqua Park.
Game days and unforgettable moments at Folsom Field.
Friendships formed beneath the Flatirons.

That foundation is real. And it’s powerful.

Three Lessons to Carry Forward

1. Embrace the Gap

As Emma Coburn has shared, the gap is the space between where you are and where you want to be.

That space is not failure. It is proof you have vision.

Growth lives there in uncertainty, discomfort, and the unknown. Lean into it.

2. Honor Tradition While Knowing When to Break It

Boulder teaches respect for roots. It also teaches independence.

Carry forward what matters. Let go of what does not. Build something new when needed.

That is where real innovation happens.

3. Start Where You Are. Use What You Have.

You do not need perfect timing or a flawless plan.

You need action.

Small, consistent steps taken with intention create momentum. And momentum changes everything.

The Beginning of Something Bigger

Class of 2026, you have already shown resilience, curiosity, and heart.

The world needs that.

Wherever your journey takes you, carry that unmistakable Boulder energy with you. Stay curious. Build meaningful connections. Keep learning.

Never forget where it started.

The Flatirons were just the warmup. The highest peaks are still ahead.

Congratulations. You have earned this moment.

Sko Buffs.

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