Cameron University graduates ready to celebrate during Commencement

For hundreds of Cameron University graduates, the latest chapter of their academic journey is about to come to an end … with a bang.

A traditional fireworks show will cap 2026 Commencement, set to begin at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, May 8, in Cameron Stadium. CU will award nearly 800 associate, bachelor's and master's degree at the ceremony.

Eligible candidates are students who completed their degree requirements in December 2025 or who will complete requirements in May, July or December 2026.

This will be the Cameron's first Commencement since Dr. Shane Hunt became its 18th president in July 2025. Hunt will address the members of Class of 2026 during the ceremony, which will begin with the traditional firing of "Big Ollie II" - the CU ROTC program's ceremonial howitzer - followed by a processional of degree candidates and faculty.

Speakers in addition to Hunt will include student body president Connor Holt and Wayne Andrews, a 1986 graduate who current serves as president of the CU Alumni Association.

A highlight of the ceremony will be the presentation of the Cameron University Distinguished Service Award, the highest honor given by the university. This year's recipient is State Rep. Trey Caldwell, a CU alumnus, who will be recognized for his service in the Oklahoma Legislature and his efforts in support of Cameron.

As it has for nearly two decades, Cameron will conclude Commencement with an impressive fireworks display as a salute to its new graduates.

More than 100 of the degrees that will be awarded Friday will be presented to master's candidates. Those students will have the opportunity to participate in a hooding ceremony inside Aggie Gymnasium earlier Friday at 3 p.m. The keynote address will be delivered by De'Andre Swanson, a candidate for his Master of Science degree in Educational Leadership, and Dean of Students at Eisenhower Middle School.

Additionally, graduates who are completing requirements to become officers in the United States Army will be commissioned at 5 p.m. in the McCasland Ballroom inside the McMahon Centennial Complex.

All ceremonies are open to family, friends and Aggie supporters.

Things to know about Commencement

Grads, their families and friends, and all visitors are encouraged to arrive on campus at least 30 minutes early to avoid lines into the stadium. Gates open at 6 p.m. Ample parking is available on campus.

Reserved seating will be available for those with disabilities - a section near midfield on the stadium floor can be accessed through the northwest gate, while additional ADA-designated seating is located on the upper levels of the stadium accessible through the east gates. Seating in these areas is limited to the guest and one escort. Commencement volunteers will direct guests to these areas.

Guests may enter the stadium through any gate, but should allow sufficient time to pass through security and be seated no later than 7:20 p.m. Children under age 6 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

Campus police will conduct safety checks of all carry-in bags including handbags, purses and camera bags. Illegal drugs, alcohol, weapons, fireworks, signs on poles, or noisemakers are not allowed. Oversized bags, backpacks and duffle bags will not be permitted, nor will coolers with drinks, cans or bottles. CU will provide complimentary bottled water to graduates and guests.

Cameron University has partnered with the Oklahoma Sports Network to livestream the ceremony for those who cannot attend in person. The livestream of the ceremony can be accessed on Cameron University's YouTube by searching for "Cameron Commencement."

In the unlikely event of severe weather Friday, Commencement will be postponed to Saturday, May 9, where three indoor ceremonies will take place in Aggie Gymnasium at 10 a.m., noon and 2 p.m.

Inclement weather announcements regarding the status of Commencement will be made through Cameron University's website and Facebook page.

Detailed information is available at https://www.cameron.edu/commencement.

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