The University of Texas at El Paso celebrated the Class of 2026 at four spring commencement ceremonies over the weekend.
Graduates of the University of Texas at El Paso greet family and friends following the 2026 spring graduation ceremony at the Don Haskins Center in El Paso, Texas, on May 16, 2026.
Among the total of 3,180 degrees conferred on Saturday and Sunday, May 16-17, include:
Pharmacy (all doctoral) 38
UTEP grads optimistic of the future
While many now prepare to enter the workforce, there is optimism among some graduates that the economy is ready for them.
UTEP graduates reunite with family and friends following a graduation ceremony at the Don Haskins Center in El Paso, Texas, on May 16, 2026.
“There are plenty of opportunities to be found in Texas,” said Kyle W Walker, who will receive his master’s degree in mental health counseling. “Finding work isn’t the hard part, but for brand new licensed professional counselor associates, finding work as a counselor that is full time and pays well may be a challenge, especially if you are looking for a salaried position offering benefits including medical, retirement, and or supervision, as part of compensation.”
Walker also noted his is a growing field with many opportunities “that rewards both patience and diligence to get what you’re looking for,” he said.
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UTEP graduates make their way to their seats during the 2026 spring commencement ceremony at the Don Haskins Center in El Paso, Texas, on May 16, 2026.
Tony Racine, who is receiving a master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling echoes the same sentiments.
“There is a steady and meaningful demand for rehabilitation counselors, especially as more communities, expand their services in mental health, workforce development, and disabilities support,” Racine said. “As for the economy, I think it’s stable and it continues to grow, and there are a lot of opportunities in the key sectors for my major such as healthcare, education and public service.”
UTEP graduate’s mortarboard cap is decorated, stating “push on through” at the spring 2026 graduation ceremony at the Don Haskins Center in El Paso, Texas, on May. 16, 2026.
This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: UTEP Class of 2026 graduation, a celebration in photos