From the Interim President

I am delighted to announce that Buffalo State University will hold its 2026 Commencement ceremonies on Saturday, May 16. As we come together to honor our graduates, their families, and guests, we also celebrate the faculty and staff members who have been integral to the journey of our graduates.

This year, we continue to celebrate with three individual ceremonies by academic school plus graduate studies, a format that allows us to truly highlight the unique achievements of each academic unit.

The 2026 ceremonies will be held as follows on Saturday, May 16:

• School of Education and Applied Professions - 9:00 a.m.
• School of Arts and Sciences including Individualized Studies - 1:00 p.m.
• Master’s and Advanced Graduate Certificates - 5:00 p.m.

As Buffalo State has evolved from a comprehensive college to a comprehensive university, our approach to Commencement mirrors this transformation. By celebrating each academic school and graduate studies individually, we recognize the unique contributions of the faculty, staff, and students within them, while embodying collective pride and accomplishment. This format aligns with traditional university commencements, and not only signifies our growth but also lays the groundwork for our ambition—to be the leading comprehensive university in the SUNY system. Our Commencement ceremonies reflect this vision, marking the first steps toward a future where we unequivocally stand as a beacon of academic excellence in the region, united and proud under the Buffalo State University banner.

I extend my sincere gratitude to the Commencement Advisory Committee chair and vice chair, Marko Miletich and Amy Wilson; Deputy Director of Commencement Operations and Ceremonial Events Kimberly Jackson; and the Commencement Advisory Committee members for their diligent work in orchestrating these important celebrations. I eagerly anticipate a fabulous day of ceremonies on May 16, where we will come together as one community to celebrate our students’ achievements; reinforce the bonds between faculty, staff, and graduates; and let the Bengal Pride shine brightly!

Thank you for your continued commitment to Buffalo State University. Here's to another successful academic year, and a warm and engaging Commencement ahead.