Held at Kimmel Arena, the event was presided over by the new Chancellor-elect, Kimberly van Noort.
In the days leading up to Commencement students participated in special celebrations such as Lavender Graduation, a cultural celebration that recognized the accomplishments and impact of graduating LGBTQIA students, and Donning of the Stoles, a ceremony in which students of diverse cultural communities and various racial/ethnic backgrounds have their accomplishments recognized and their achievements applauded by the campus community and their loved ones.
On the big day, students participated in one last University tradition — patting Rocky the Bulldog for good luck after graduation.
And got one last thumbs up from Rocky while they prepared!
In her remarks to the graduates, van Noort encouraged students to remember the University motto “Levo Oculos Meos In Montes,” meaning “I lift my eyes to the mountains,” as they move through life after graduation.
“We always want you to look up, look ahead, and look to the future but also to be inspired by our amazing location and by the multitude of transformative experiences you have had here,” van Noort said. “We've asked a lot of you, because the world needs leaders with wisdom. The world needs UNC Asheville graduates. Wherever you go, put your ambition into action and rise to meet any challenge. And remember that it all started here.”
The new graduates celebrated with friends, family and faculty.
They will now head into new journeys, including pursuing masters degrees, working with NASA, starting affordable home-building non-profits, and conducting soil research in the rainforests of Puerto Rico. Learn more about what’s next for our graduates here.
You can relive the full ceremony via the live-stream recording:
Congrats Bulldogs! You've already made us proud!
© 2026 UNC Asheville
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