KEARNEY – The University of Nebraska at Kearney will discontinue its summer commencement ceremony beginning in 2027, with summer graduates instead having the opportunity to participate in the university’s December commencement.
The decision follows careful consideration of the financial, staffing and operational resources required to host an additional commencement ceremony each year. While summer commencement has been a valued tradition, participation has declined in recent years while the resources required to host the ceremony have increased.
“This wasn’t an easy decision, because we understand how important commencement is to our graduates and their families,” UNK spokesman Todd Gottula said. “At the same time, we have to carefully consider where we commit our financial and staffing resources, particularly in an increasingly challenging budget environment.”
UNK is announcing the change approximately 10 months in advance to provide students and families time to plan. The university will continue to host spring and winter commencement ceremonies.
Summer 2027 graduates will be invited to participate in the December 2027 commencement ceremony.