CKerd College’s 2026 commencement ceremony, now back on Kappa Field, has had some new updates since the controversy in the fall.

The ceremony will take place at 8 a.m. May 17 on Kappa Field underneath the traditional white tent. There is no limit to the number of guests students may bring. The ceremony may be slightly shorter in length, in an attempt to reduce the time attendees have to be out in the heat. 

“We’ve been experimenting with ways to make the ceremony shorter, without cutting anything crucial,” said commencement committee member, senior communication major Mellen Carroll.

In regards to the planning of the event, Carroll is hopeful that the committee’s efforts will show. 

“I am hopeful that we will be able to make positive changes in length, accessibility and general student and family experience,” said Carroll.

The ceremony will be live-streamed throughout campus in multiple air-conditioned buildings, as well as on YouTube for at-home viewing. Lara Dallman-Weiss, Eckerd Alumnus and U.S. Olympian, will be the keynote speaker.

Marine science major and senior Megan Reed is grateful Eckerd’s Kappa Field commencement tradition will continue at Eckerd. In the fall, it was announced that the ceremony would be moved to the Bradenton Area Convention Center. Many seniors protested this change, which led to its return to Kappa Field. 

“I’m looking forward to the ceremony and excited to be able to walk at Eckerd,” said Reed. 

Carroll shares Reed’s excitement in getting to experience a traditional Eckerd graduation. 

“I’m glad that Eckerd chose to listen to the student body and put graduation back on Kappa Field, and I’m hopeful that as a school, we can continue to remember that making events accessible is a challenge that gives us the opportunity to think creatively, not a problem to avoid,” said Carroll. 

In an email sent to students on March 3, Vice President for Student Success Marjorie Sanfilippo announced that cap and gown orders have officially opened. Graduation regalia must be ordered by March 31. Packages range in cost from $173.40 to $347.40

As the day gets closer, students and families can get further information on the commencement website.