The ceremonies took place during Florida State’s 175th anniversary year, as the university reflects upon its history and looks ahead.
Student speakers also reflected on the meaning of the moment and the transition ahead.
“As you walk into whatever comes next … you don’t need to have it all figured out right now,” Student Body Vice President Natalia Ramirez-Romero told graduates on Friday. “That in-between feeling … it’s not a sign that you’re lost. It’s a sign that you’re growing.”
FSU Trustee and Student Body President Carson Dale graduated Saturday and also addressed his fellow students.
“During your time at Florida State, you didn’t just go to school. You lived a life here,” Dale said. “Because of your involvement, time and effort, FSU is not the same place it was when you arrived, and neither are you.”
Incoming Student Body President Ian Seibert spoke at the 2 p.m. Saturday ceremony.
“We’re amid a very promising time here at FSU, and our momentum is not going unnoticed,” Seibert said. “We’re making waves around the country in many industries: health, business, science, engineering, research, innovation, music and more. I’m confident that you will carry that momentum to wherever you end up next. There is no better time to be a graduate of this preeminent university.”
The ceremony included participation from members of the Seminole Tribe of Florida Color Guard, reflecting FSU’s longstanding partnership with the Tribe.
Graduates included 6,732 bachelor’s recipients, along with students earning 1,523 master’s and specialist degrees, 261 doctoral degrees and law degrees across a wide range of disciplines.
As the ceremonies concluded, McCullough reminded graduates of their place in the university’s broader community.
“With more than 420,000 living alumni, no matter where you go, chances are you won’t be far from a fellow FSU graduate,” he said.
The College of Law will hold its Spring 2026 Commencement Ceremony at 11 a.m. Sunday, May 3, at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center, with a reception to follow on the Green at the College of Law.
FSU Panama City will host its spring commencement ceremony at 5 p.m. (CST) Sunday, May 3, at the Atlantis Center in Lynn Haven, welcoming all Panama City campus graduates, as well as those who completed degrees in the previous summer and fall semesters. Former state Sen. Doug Broxson, who serves on the Florida Board of Governors, will deliver the commencement address.
To view the commencement webcasts, visit commencement.fsu.edu.