Commencement is one of the proudest days of the year at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Learn about some of the exciting ways to celebrate graduates, no matter where you are.
2021 Commencement will include both in-person and virtual experiences. In the graduation cycle when it is safe to resume large, in-person gatherings, the university still intends to invite graduates from 2020 and 2021 to participate in an on-campus ceremony at Memorial Stadium.
Watch the Stage Crossings livestream
2021 and 2020 graduates were invited to participate in the in-person individual, private Stage Crossing experience. This procession will be specific to each graduate, where the graduate’s name will be announced as they cross a stage.
Stage Crossings will take place Monday, May 10 – Monday, May 17 at the Krannert Center for the Performing Arts. Tune in live to watch your graduate:
Learn more about the Stage Crossings.
Tune in for the University-wide Online Commencement Celebration
The University-wide Online Commencement Celebration will take place on Saturday, May 15 at noon CT via go.illinois.edu/celebration. The celebration will feature congratulatory messages from the Chancellor, Provost and Deans and the conferral of degrees by the President of the University of Illinois System. The viewing is open to everyone.
Celebrate accomplishments with Alma and virtual photo backgrounds
The Alma Mater statue will be dressed in commencement attire on campus from May 10-May 17.
If you're unable to come to campus, we’re bringing Illinois to you! Graduates can superimpose themselves into virtual Illinois photo backgrounds that feature iconic campus locations.
Don’t forget to share your photos using #ILLINOIS2021.
Share the milestone
No matter where they are, graduates can search for their name and download a slide to share on social media.
Check with your unit or college for other celebrations
Depending on the department and college, additional virtual celebrations and opportunities are available to graduates. Graduates should be sure to check their university email and stay connected with their college and academic unit.
Stay connected on Commencement celebrations
Visit the Commencement website, follow university social media and continue to check your university email to stay up to date on university celebrations.