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Flight of Accomplishment

A New Commencement Tradition Takes Flight at AU

Flight of Accomplishment Week, May 5–7, features a series of signature, university-wide events celebrating the Class of 2026 in the final days before commencement. The week serves as the culmination of the Eagle experience—marking the defining transition from students to proud AU alumni. Check out the inaugural Flight of Accomplishment Week lineup, learn more here, and see details below!

Community Commencement Celebration 
Open to all graduating students, this signature celebration honors the achievements and diverse journeys of the Class of 2026 while formally welcoming graduates into a lifelong, supportive alumni network rooted in connection, pride, and continued engagement. As part of the ceremony, students will receive commemorative stoles and cords recognizing their leadership, involvement, and contributions to fostering an inclusive AU community.

Tuesday, May 5, 6 –8 p.m., Meltzer Center, Barry Goldberg Court
Register to attend!

Graduation Bash
Wednesday, May 6, 6 –8 p.m., the Bridge

Celebrate your final days on campus with an afternoon full of fun, food, and unforgettable memories with the Class of 2026. Enjoy tote bag painting, a popcorn bar, button making, and a photobooth to capture the moment, along with pictures with Clawed. Grab delicious walking tacos from Chartwells and sip on Bridge mocktails while a DJ keeps the energy high and a roving magician adds a touch of surprise throughout the event. Share your favorite AU memory or event in exchange for a Bridge token and take part in a lively, interactive experience designed to bring seniors together one last time.

Register to attend!

  • Phi Beta Kappa Induction Ceremony: Students in the liberal arts and sciences who are graduating in the top 10 percent of their class will be recognized for their academic excellence by being inducted into the nation’s most prestigious honor society. Thursday, May 7, 10 a.m.–noon, Abramson Family Recital Hall, Katzen Arts Center
  • University Student Awards: This prestigious ceremony and reception celebrate the university’s highest honors, recognizing graduating students, organizations, and advisors who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, scholarship, and service. Thursday, May 7, 2:30–4:30 p.m., Constitution Hall
  • AU Honors Graduate Recognition Ceremony: This formal medal ceremony celebrates the academic rigor and distinguished achievements of the program's graduates, honoring their dedication to scholarship, followed by a celebratory reception. Thursday, May 7, 5–7:30 p.m., Kay Spiritual Life Center and the Abramson Family Founders Room

Commencement at American University

All American University Commencement ceremonies take place in Bender Arena and will be live-streamed. Each ceremony lasts approximately two to two and a half hours. Ceremonies include both undergraduate and graduate students for each school.

Spring 2026

Friday, May 8, 2026

9:00 a.m.
Kogod School of Business
2:00 p.m.
College of Arts and Sciences

Saturday, May 9, 2026

9:00 a.m.
School of Communication
School of Education
2:00 p.m.
School of International Service
6:00 p.m.
School of Public Affairs

Saturday, May 16, 2026

10:00 a.m.
Washington College of Law

Commencement Celebrations

School Receptions

Receptions will immediately follow the Commencement ceremony unless otherwise noted.

Kogod School of Business
Erid Friedheim Quad, in front of the Kogod Building

College of Arts and Sciences
Katzen Arts Center Rotunda

Baker School of Education
Spring Valley Building

School of Communication
McKinley Building

School of International Service
SIS Building Atrium and Abramson Family Founders Room

School of Public Affairs
Eric Friedheim Quad, in front of the Kerwin Building
(Pre-ceremony), 3:30 PM

Washington College of Law
Claudio Grossman Hall & The Commons
Friday, May 15, 4:00 - 6:00 PM
Registration Required