The University of Colorado Boulder delivered a historic moment on May 2, 2026, as a record-breaking class crossed the stage at Folsom Field. In the university’s 150th anniversary year, CU Boulder awarded an astonishing 10,613 degrees to 10,198 graduates, making it one of the largest commencements in school history.
Under clear blue skies and framed by the iconic Flatirons, an estimated 40,000 family members, friends, and proud Buffs packed the stadium to celebrate the Class of 2026. The energy throughout the morning reflected everything Boulder represents—achievement, community, and a deep connection to place.
A Historic Milestone Year
This year’s commencement carried extra meaning as CU Boulder marked 150 years since its founding. The milestone added a sense of legacy to an already unforgettable day, connecting the newest graduates to generations of Buffs who came before them.
The numbers alone tell the story of the university’s growth and impact. The graduating class included 7,980 undergraduates, 1,763 master’s students, 481 doctoral candidates, 193 law graduates, and 196 MBA recipients. Each degree represented years of hard work, resilience, and dedication…