USC Celebrates Class of 2026 with Inspiring Commencement at the Coliseum
USC’s newest graduates bask in commencement joy at the Coliseum
University Of Southern California
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The University of Southern California (USC) celebrated its 143rd commencement ceremony at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, conferring nearly 19,000 degrees. Keynote speaker Gustavo Dudamel, along with USC President Beong-Soo Kim, inspired graduates to embrace self-belief and pursue their passions, culminating in a vibrant ceremony filled with music, fireworks, and heartfelt family moments.
- 01USC conferred a total of 18,982 degrees, including 6,118 undergraduate degrees and 12,864 graduate degrees and certificates.
- 02Gustavo Dudamel, music director of the Los Angeles Philharmonic, conducted the USC Trojan Marching Band and received an honorary Doctor of Music degree during the ceremony.
- 03USC President Beong-Soo Kim emphasized the importance of self-belief, referencing notable graduates like Olympic athlete Allyson Felix and mountaineer Lucy Westlake.
- 04The commencement ceremony featured approximately 46,000 attendees, with 11,518 watching via livestream.
- 05Student speaker Malique 'Kash' Amos shared his personal journey, encouraging graduates to adapt and lead with empathy in a rapidly changing world.
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The University of Southern California (USC) held its 143rd commencement ceremony at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, where nearly 19,000 degrees were conferred to the Class of 2026. The event featured Gustavo Dudamel, music and artistic director of the Los Angeles Philharmonic, as the keynote speaker, who also conducted the USC Trojan Marching Band. USC President Beong-Soo Kim, delivering his first commencement address, encouraged graduates to embrace self-belief and pursue their passions, highlighting the achievements of notable alumni like Olympic champion Allyson Felix and mountaineer Lucy Westlake. The ceremony was attended by approximately 46,000 people, with many graduates celebrating their accomplishments alongside family members. The event concluded with a spectacular fireworks display, symbolizing the bright futures ahead for the graduates. As part of the four-day celebration, various individual school ceremonies featured distinguished speakers, culminating in a memorable experience for students and families alike.
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The commencement ceremony fosters a sense of community and pride among graduates and their families, celebrating academic achievements and inspiring future contributions to society.
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