A season of celebration at UCalgary spring convocation 2026

Since its first ceremony in 1967, convocation has become one of the University of Calgary’s most meaningful traditions, marking both the culmination of years of hard work and the beginning of a new chapter for generations of graduates.  

This spring, thousands will cross the stage and officially join UCalgary’s alumni community during 11 ceremonies between June 3 and 10 at the Jack Simpson Gym. 

Chancellor Jon Cornish and President Ed McCauley will join the celebrations, recognizing the accomplishments of UCalgary’s graduating students. 

One last handoff 

This will be Cornish’s final convocation since assuming the university’s highest volunteer role in 2022. Cornish has served as a champion for students and a passionate advocate for the university community, playing a central role in celebrating graduates at each convocation ceremony over the past four years.   

“Nothing could have prepared me for hosting convocation,” says Cornish. “The outpouring of emotion, the pomp, the celebration, and especially the time spent by our graduands, their families and their support networks have been truly remarkable.” 

“It is a unique privilege to contribute to this ultimate university moment for future UCalgary alumni. Come celebrate the Class of 2026 as they take their next steps.”

A legacy of remarkable alumni 

Among the new graduates are students whose journeys reflect the diversity and excellence of the UCalgary community, from emerging researchers and entrepreneurs to future health-care professionals, artists and educators.

As they prepare to begin a new chapter, they follow in the footsteps of notable alumni such as Canada’s 22nd Prime Minister Stephen Harper, BA’85, MA’91; Olympic gold medallist Dr. Hayley Wickenheiser, BKin’13, MSc’16, Hon. LLD’18, PhD’21; and astronaut, Canadian record-holder for time spent in space, and former UCalgary chancellor Dr. Robert Thirsk, BSc (Eng)’76, MD, Hon. LLD’09. Their accomplishments continue to shape Canada and the world, reflecting the breadth of possibilities that come with joining UCalgary’s global alumni community.

Honorary degrees conferred 

Highlights of this spring’s convocation include the conferring of honorary degrees and the Order of the University of Calgary. Among the honorees are philanthropists Marilyn and Jeff McCaig; Elder Rod Hunter; former chancellor Deborah Yedlin; and Sauli Niinistö, former president of the Republic of Finland. 

As one chapter closes and another begins, spring convocation serves as a reminder that every ending can also be the start of something extraordinary. 

To learn more about the honorary award recipients, click here. 

Convocation ceremony details 

Wednesday, June 3, 2026, 2 p.m. 
For students graduating from the faculties of Graduate Studies and Veterinary Medicine, as well as the Cumming School of Medicine.   

Thursday, June 4, 2026, 9:30 a.m. 
For students graduating from the Faculties of Graduate Studies and Nursing, as well as the Schulich School of Engineering. 

Thursday, June 4, 2026, 2 p.m. 
For students graduating from the Faculty of Graduate Studies and the Schulich School of Engineering. 

Friday, June 5, 2026, 9:30 a.m. 
For students graduating from the Faculty of Graduate Studies, the Schulich School of Engineering and the Haskayne School of Business (graduate students only). 

Friday, June 5, 2026, 2 p.m. 
For students graduating from the Haskayne School of Business (undergraduate students only). 

Monday, June 8, 2026, 9:30 a.m. 
For students graduating from the faculties of Graduate Studies and Arts. 

Monday, June 8, 2026, 2 p.m. 
For students graduating from the faculties of Graduate Studies and Arts. 

Tuesday, June 9, 2026, 9:30 a.m. 
For students graduating from the faculties of Graduate Studies and Science. 

Tuesday, June 9, 2026, 2 p.m. 
For students graduating from the faculties of Graduate Studies, Kinesiology and Science. 

Wednesday, June 10, 2026, 9:30 a.m. 
For students graduating from the Faculty of Graduate Studies and Werklund School of Education. 

Wednesday, June 10, 2026, 2 p.m. 
For students graduating from the faculties of Graduate Studies, Law and Social Work, as well as the School of Architecture, Planning and Landscape, and the School of Public Policy. 

For more information on the ceremonies, visit the graduation page.