UW-Madison Celebrates 173rd Spring Commencement as Chancellor Jennifer Mnookin Bids Farewell
The University of Wisconsin-Madison marked a significant milestone this past Saturday as thousands gathered at Camp Randall to celebrate the 173rd spring commencement. The event served as both a celebration of student achievement and a poignant farewell to Chancellor Jennifer Mnookin, who is preparing to transition to her next role as the president of Columbia University later this May.
- Event: UW-Madison’s 173rd spring commencement ceremony.
- Attendance: Approximately 40,000 students, faculty, family members, and friends.
- Keynote Speaker: New York Times best-selling author James Patterson.
- Leadership Transition: Chancellor Jennifer Mnookin will leave UW-Madison to become the president of Columbia University.
A Milestone Celebration at Camp Randall
Despite warnings of potential inclement weather, the ceremony proceeded “rain or shine” at Camp Randall. The atmosphere was one of high energy and reflection, with nearly 40,000 attendees filling the stadium to witness the class of 2026 graduate. The day featured a blend of academic tradition and personal farewells, highlighted by remarks from UW System Board of Regents President Amy Bogost and student speaker Ryan Schwartz.
The event was not without humor. Keynote speaker James Patterson, a New York Times best-selling author, shared his nerves before taking the stage, noting the scale of the crowd. During his address, Patterson leaned into the timing of the event, humorously referring to himself as Chancellor Mnookin’s “last big mistake.”
The Legacy of Chancellor Jennifer Mnookin
For Chancellor Jennifer Mnookin, the ceremony represented one of her final official acts at the university. Mnookin began her tenure in the fall of 2022, arriving at the same time as the graduating class of 2026. Her leadership over the past four years has been characterized by a shared journey with the students.
“Like most of you, I too arrived here in the summer of 2022, and like you, I have had a life-changing Wisconsin experience over these past four years — one full of joy and learning and one that has tested me at times as it has truly tested you as well.”
Mnookin’s transition to the presidency of Columbia University marks the end of a chapter for UW-Madison, as the university prepares for a new era of leadership following her departure this month.
Prompt Facts: 2026 Spring Commencement
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Ceremony Number | 173rd Spring Commencement |
| Venue | Camp Randall Stadium |
| Chancellor’s Tenure | Fall 2022 – May 2026 |
| Next Appointment | President of Columbia University |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was the keynote speaker for the 2026 commencement?
The keynote speaker was James Patterson, a renowned New York Times best-selling author.
Where is Chancellor Jennifer Mnookin going?
Chancellor Mnookin is transitioning to the role of president at Columbia University.
How many people attended the ceremony?
Approximately 40,000 students, faculty, family members, and friends gathered at Camp Randall for the event.
Looking Forward
As the class of 2026 moves into their professional lives, UW-Madison enters a period of transition. The departure of Chancellor Mnookin opens a new chapter for the university’s administration, while the graduates carry forward the “life-changing Wisconsin experience” that defined their tenure since 2022.