This spring, 1,286 students earned degrees and certificates, each representing a unique journey that culminated in a day filled with pride and recognition. This year’s Commencement marks an extraordinary milestone as it is the first class to enter the University as Cal Poly Humboldt since the University received its polytechnic designation in 2022.
“Today we celebrated more than a milestone—we recognized the start of a lifelong journey. Our graduates are stepping into a world that needs their ideas, their compassion, and their courage. At Cal Poly Humboldt, they’ve learned to think critically, act responsibly, and adapt to change. We send them forward with confidence, knowing they are ready to shape what comes next,” says Advancement Events & Commencement Coordinator Shannon Collart.
Nearly 1,200 students participated in the commencement ceremony on Saturday, showcasing the spectacular accomplishments of the University's three colleges. The College of Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences celebrated over 270 graduates. Meanwhile, the College of Natural Resources & Sciences honored more than 400 graduates. Lastly, the College of Professional Studies marked the occasion with more than 500 graduates.
Among the special guests was alum Carla Shapreau (‘83, Special Major), who was awarded the Doctorate of Fine Arts for her groundbreaking work at the intersection of music, law, and cultural heritage during the College of Arts, Humanities & Social Science. In addition to Shapreau’s award, the first graduate of the groundbreaking Pelican Bay prison B.A. program, Arthur Monarque, was honored. Monarque will pursue a master’s degree at Wake Forest University.
Additionally, during the College of Natural Resources & Sciences ceremony, graduates heard from this year’s Golden Graduates, who shared their inspiring reflections and valuable insights about work, life, family, and yes, even credit scores, since graduating from Humboldt 50 years ago.
During the College of Professional Studies ceremony, Bailey Tara Schultz (‘26, Child Development & Family Relationships) was recognized as the Outstanding Student of the Year for her achievements in fostering inclusion for deaf students, developing an ASL curriculum, and strengthening ties with the local deaf community, significantly enhancing campus culture and accessibility.
Watch videos from Commencement
More Commencement Information
New graduates are encouraged to register for FREE with Forever Humboldt, the official association for the Cal Poly Humboldt community. Registered members receive ongoing Library access, special discounts at local businesses, access to career resources, special invites to Forever Humboldt events, and more. Get more information on the Forever Humboldt website.
Students are also encouraged to take the Graduation Pledge of Social and Environmental Responsibility, a Commencement tradition that began at Humboldt in 1987 and has been used by more than 100 universities worldwide.
To celebrate the Class of 2026, a special fundraising campaign has been launched, challenging the Class of 2026 to raise $2,026 for the Student Emergency Grant. Contributions will provide immediate support to current students facing unexpected financial challenges, allowing new alumni to make a meaningful impact on campus from the start. Leave a legacy by making a contribution today!