Spring 2024 Undergraduate Commencement

As the birthplace of public higher education, the University of Georgia has fostered a tradition of academic excellence, intellectual inquiry, and service to others since 1785. For our graduates, Commencement is a beginning, the start of the next chapter in their lives.

Whether you’re participating in the undergraduate Commencement ceremony or supporting your graduate, this information will help you prepare for and navigate graduation day.

Ceremony start time:

7:30 p.m. – Graduates should arrive by 6:45 p.m.

Doors open:

5:30 p.m.

Guests should enter using Gates 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6.

Graduates should enter using Gate 10.

Sanford Stadium Map

Tickets are required for all graduates at the Spring Undergraduate Commencement Ceremony to sit on the field. More information will be posted to the website under Tickets. Tickets are not required for guests to the ceremony.

COMMENCEMENT SPEAKER

One of the most decorated American athletes of all time, Allison Schmitt is a four-time Olympian and 10-time Olympic medalist in swimming. A veteran leader, Schmitt, known as “Schmitty”, was elected captain by her teammates at the 2016 and 2020 Olympic Games. She is still the current American record holder in the 200-meter freestyle, which she has held since 2009.

Out of the pool, she is an avid mental health advocate, speaking out about her personal struggles with depression and her family’s tragedy of losing a loved one to suicide. Passionate about raising awareness and helping those who are battling mental health issues, Schmitt graduated in May 2023 with a master’s degree in social work from Arizona State University, a degree she received 10 years after earning her bachelor’s degree in psychology from UGA. She always intended to teach once her professional swimming career ended. Now, she plans to use her degree, her athletic experiences, and her education skills to empower others to overcome personal battles allowing them to grow in their own journey. Allison Schmitt is committed to making a difference by positively impacting the lives of others.