Graduating students Mike Nyhart and Lexy Lunger take a selfie before the start of the ceremony. (UWM Photo/Troye Fox)
A psychology major has an apt saying on their cap: "Ever look at someone and wonder what is going on inside their head?" (UWM Photo/Troye Fox)
Tanner Hansen reveals himself as the person who's been under that Pounce Panther suit for the last few years. (UWM Photo/Troye Fox)
JoAnne Anton, president and CEO of Herb Kohl Philanthropies, gives the commencement address at the morning ceremony. Anton spoke at both ceremonies and received an honorary degree. (UWM Photo/Troye Fox)
Graduate Davien Holton celebrates after receiving his diploma. (UWM Photo/Troye Fox)
Kate Jakubowski shows off her diploma after crossing the stage. (UWM Photo/Troye Fox)
Cindy Bentley, executive director of People First Wisconsin and an advocate for the rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, receives an honorary degree at commencement. Bentley, who was born with fetal alcohol syndrome and an intellectual disability, is the only person with an intellectual and developmental disability leading an advocacy organization in Wisconsin. Bentley was hooded by Kim Litwack, dean of the College of Health Professions and Sciences. (UWM Photo/Elora Hennessey)
A beautifully decorated cap from a nursing graduate reads: "My blood, sweat and literal tears – BSN." (UWM Photo/Elora Hennessey)
Students Doreen Agyare (left) and Jean Mildred (right) stand with pride when the first-generation students were asked to be recognized. (UWM Photo/Elora Hennessey)
Bayan Alma gives two thumbs up as she is hooded as a doctoral graduate in nursing. (UWM Photo/Elora Hennessey)
Lisa Lipkins, teaching assistant professor of marketing, gives a hug to Bachelor of Business Administration graduate Victoria Hernandez. (UWM Photo/Elora Hennessey)
Benjamin Gates shows off his diploma after after receiving his Master of Science in kinesiology. (UWM Photo/Elora Hennessey)
Engineer graduates from the 2+2 program cohort celebrate with John Boyland, professor of computer science, after receiving their diplomas. The 2+2 Program is a partnership with Chung Yuan Christian University in Taiwan. (UWM Photo/Elora Hennessey)
Nursing graduate Alejandra Martinez poses with her diploma after walking the stage. (UWM Photo/Elora Hennessey)
Courtavious Miner, the final graduate to cross the stage, poses at the end of the graduation aisle holding the commemorative coin from the UWM Alumni Association. Students toss a coin into the campus fountain at the start of their college journey, symbolizing their hopes and dreams. On graduation day, they receive it back, marking both the completion of their college experience and the start of a new chapter. (UWM Photo/Elora Hennessey)
The UW-Milwaukee Panther Arena was filled with joy, applause and camera flashes as more than 3,300 students were honored during UWM’s 132nd commencement.
Some graduates are the first in their families to earn a college degree. Most volunteered in the community, completed an internship or took advantage of research opportunities at UWM. Many left the stage not only with a degree in hand, but with job offers already secured.
JoAnne Anton, president and CEO of Herb Kohl Philanthropies, delivered the keynote address at both ceremonies and was awarded an honorary degree in the morning. In the afternoon, Cindy Bentley, executive director of People First Wisconsin and a tireless advocate for the rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, was also recognized with an honorary degree.
This commencement also marked a transition for UWM leadership, as Chancellor Mark Mone presided over his final ceremony after 11 years of service. He will return to the Lubar College of Business , leaving a legacy of dedication and impact.
