Madison Reporter

The spring 2024 commencement ceremony at the University of Wisconsin–Madison's Camp Randall Stadium on Saturday, May 11, was marked by an atmosphere of joy and celebration. Whether it was the ideal weather conditions or the collective exuberance of a class whose college years were impacted by COVID-19, there was a distinctive sense of jubilation in the air.

The smiles on the faces of graduates seemed broader, the sky appeared bluer, and the traditional "Jump Around" dance was performed with extra vigor. Graduates and their supporters walked through the Camp Randall Arch to enter the stadium under sunny skies.

Years of hard work culminated in this momentous occasion as degrees were conferred upon proud graduates. Among them was Grace Bounds who celebrated her degree conferral with great joy.

Sharing this significant milestone with friends added to the excitement. Soon-to-be graduates Ashley Lesko, Grace Henke, Brelynn Bille, Lindsey Colin, and James Oscar posed for a photo together. Their white stoles signified that they were first-generation college graduates.

The ceremony also included time-honored traditions such as singing Varsity shoulder-to-shoulder and celebrating Badger spirit in clusters. The event offered ample opportunities for celebration and moments to flash the W sign.

Women’s volleyball player Anna Smrek stood proudly as degrees were conferred while displaying the national championship trophy and rings won by the esteemed Badger volleyball team. Other graduating members of Wisconsin's volleyball team showed off their collection of NCAA championship and Big Ten conference trophies before the start of the ceremony.

The day was also a time for families to share in their loved ones' achievements. Graduates Jalen Corey (Information Systems), Jessie Taft (Master’s degree in Bacteriology), Jacob Kunkel (Biochemistry), Noa Figenblat (Computer Science), Madeleine Mayo (Biology and Global Health) all celebrated their accomplishments with family members.

Family and friends of Tyler Gee, a soon-to-be graduate in computer science, chanted his name as they posed for a photo with cut-outs of his face before the ceremony. His family had traveled from Illinois, New York City, and Indianapolis to attend the event.