LEXINGTON, Ky. – The College of Social Work (CoSW) at the University of Kentucky proudly celebrates the accomplishments of its graduating class of 2026 on Friday, May 8 at 2 p.m. Amid an atmosphere of celebration and reflection, graduates from the College of Social Work will come together with faculty, staff, families, and friends at Rupp Arena to mark an important milestone in their academic journey.
This ceremony recognizes the hard work and dedication each student has demonstrated along the way. As they cross the stage, graduates step forward as prepared and confident professionals, ready to carry their skills and passion into the communities they will serve.
The CoSW looks forward to celebrating its graduates at the Graduation Celebration, hosted by the College of Social Work, and at Grad Gathering, hosted by the UK Alumni Association, following the commencement ceremony. Throughout the week, graduates are invited to share their photos with the CoSW for an opportunity to be highlighted on social media. Please use #UKCoSWGrad2026 on all social media posts from the week to be featured at the Graduation Celebration.
Graduation Celebration (hosted by UK College of Social Work)
Time: 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Location: 2nd floor, Hilton Hotel (369 West Vine Street, Lexington, KY 40507).
The Graduation Celebration, occurring before commencement, is a longer event and is exclusively for College of Social Work graduates. There will be food, photo opportunities, and an opportunity to spend quality time with your fellow graduates as well as college faculty and staff.
Grad Gathering (hosted by UK Alumni Association)
Time: Immediately following commencement
Location: Club C, Rupp Arena (430 W Vine St, Lexington, KY 40507).
The Grad Gathering, occurring immediately following commencement in Rupp Arena, is an event at which all colleges with students graduating during the commencement ceremony will be represented, including the College of Social Work. The CoSW will be there with a small table and a gift for each graduate. Graduates typically walk through this space before reuniting with any friends and family who watched them participate in commencement.
More information on commencement.
Parking:
Please park at the Hilton Hotel garage, on 369 West Vine Street (you may enter from either Vine St. or Main St.).
Bring your parking ticket: Please make sure to bring your parking ticket with you to the Graduation Celebration.
Where to get your parking validation sticker: You can pick up your validation sticker from Bryan Back, Sarah Cleaver, or Allison Bourne at the check-in table.
Parking validation: The validation sticker will allow you to exit the parking garage without additional charges.
Please note the parking garage has an elevator on every floor except the top level. Please take the elevator to the 2nd floor entrance where the ballroom is located. Entrance is handicap accessible.
Entering the Hilton:
Entry from Pedway: The pedway from the Hyatt & Rupp Arena comes out on to the 2nd floor where the ballrooms are located.
Entry from Street Level: The elevators are located just to the left of the Hotel Registration Desk. Take the elevator to the 2nd floor entrance where the ballroom is located. Entrances & elevators are handicap accessible.
