Celebrating the Class of 2026
On May 2, faculty, staff, students, and family members gathered to celebrate 72 Department of Chemistry graduates from Fall 2025 and Spring 2026. The cohort included 40 undergraduate students, 25 Ph.D. recipients, and 7 master’s graduates.
The ceremony highlighted the dedication, curiosity, and resilience that define the department’s students. Led by Dr. Jacquie Richardson, director of the organic teaching laboratories, the students reflected on shared experiences: from the infamous carbon monoxide lab to the surprising results of final projects.
A highlight of the ceremony was the hooding of graduate students, during which advisors placed ceremonial hoods over their students’ shoulders and formally welcomed them into the chemical community. As part of this tradition, attendees also learned about each student’s research, accomplishments, and future plans.
The department also announced several undergraduate awards from the American Chemical Society and the American Institute of Chemists, and recognized four seniors who earned Latin honors.
As graduates crossed the stage, they joined a broader community of chemists prepared to contribute to research, industry, education, and beyond.
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More pictures coming soon!
