Commencement Ceremony

Mark your calendars!

The 2026 Commencement Ceremony is scheduled for Saturday May 30, 2026 at 1 PM ET.

This year’s celebration will honor leaders whose work transforms lives and strengthens communities both locally and across the globe.

Our keynote speaker will be Lincoln C. Mali, a global philanthropist and equity-driven financial services executive.

“His commitment to service, global citizenship, and leadership mirrors the values we instill in our graduates,” said Dr. Yves Salomon‑Fernández, president of Urban College. “He will inspire and energize students as they begin their next chapter.”

Commencement weekend will also celebrate the achievements of Denella J. Clark, president and CEO of the Boston Arts Academy Foundation. Clark will receive the Robert M. Coard Leadership Award, which recognizes exceptional leadership and service to Boston's communities. Like Mali, she will also be awarded an honorary degree in Human Services.

Read more about our speakers and honorees on the blog.

Important Information:

Commencement Day, Saturday, May 30

  • 12:00 pm - Graduates arrive at Urban College’s campus (2 Boylston Street, 2nd Floor, Boston, MA 02116)

    •  This will give you time to check in, take photos in front of the Urban College backdrop, share your story, and celebrate with your fellow graduates.

      • If you have children, they are welcome to join you on campus for a bit, but you should plan to have someone bring them to the theater at 12:30 so you can get ready to join the procession and they can get ready to celebrate you at the theater.

  • 12:40 pm – Graduates, staff, faculty, and Board members walk in a formal processional to the Emerson Majestic Theater from Urban College’s campus.     

    • Please note, the road is uneven, so take that into consideration when choosing footwear! 

  • 1:00-3:00 pm – The Commencement ceremony takes place at the Emerson Cutler Majestic Theatre  (219 Tremont Street)

  • After the ceremony ends, you will exit the theater and can meet your guests outside.

Guests

  • You may invite as many people as you would like!

  • No tickets are required for entry.

  • Information for Guests (please share with your family and friends!)

    • Guests should go directly to the theater (Emerson Majestic Theatre, Boston, MA 02111).

    • Doors will open at 12:30 pm.

    • No balloons, food, or drinks are allowed inside the theater.

    • Please keep aisles clear at all time and be seated when the program begins.

  •  The event is being livestreamed for family members who are not available to attend. We will post the access link to our website and share via email before the ceremony. 

Congratulations, and we look forward to celebrating with you! 🎉

Remember to use #UrbanCollegeGrad and tag @UrbanCollegeofBoston when sharing Commencement photos on social media!