Spring 2026 grads revel in celebration

Nearly 6,000 new alumni crossed the commencement stage this week during nine ceremonies. They join more than 350,000 others already repping the blue and gold in nearly every profession and industry. 

Congratulations to these standouts as they take their next steps. And congratulations to the many family members and loved ones who helped propel them across the finish line.

FIU also presented Cuban singer and songwriter Willy Chirino with an honorary Doctor of Music degree during one of the ceremonies. Chirino shared inspiring reflections about his life, including how his mother and his aunt believed in him and how he learned to dream big at an early age. He was later serenaded by FIU students and two of Chirino's daughters, who sang one of his iconic songs, "Soy Guajiro." Watch Chirino's acceptance speech and the special serenade. 

Photos and videos below by Margarita Rentis, Sophia Bolivar, Marc Funes, Nicolas Garcia and Genesis Llanos.