50th Reunion Commencement Regalia Information

Please enter the regalia information for each reunion celebrant participating in the 2026 Commencement Ceremony on Friday, May 15th.

Alumni participating in Commencement activities are welcome to bring and don graduate-level hoods from other universities, or we can provide hoods for all those who hold a master's or doctorate from any institution. If applicable, please let us know if you have an advanced degree below.

Thursday, May 14, 2026

Some events have limited capacity and the event may sell out. We encourage you to register early.

Thursday, May 14, 2026 | 1-2 p.m. | Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum Tour

Tour the Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum with a student-educator and enjoy an in-depth exploration of several works from the museum’s renowned permanent collection. Participants will engage with one another in group discussions throughout the tour and are encouraged to explore the special exhibitions before or after the tour.

Capacity is limited. Advanced registration recommended.

Thursday, May 14, 2026 | 2-3:30 p.m. | Danforth Campus Tour

From the new construction on the east end to renovations in Mallinckrodt, you and your classmates will explore the next chapter of your beloved WashU campus during this tour led by a WashU staff member. Relive a bit of your college experience while celebrating the milestones of the next generation.

Capacity is limited. Advanced registration is recommended.

Thursday, May 14, 2026 | 4-9 p.m. | 50th Reunion Medallion Ceremony and Reception

The Class of 1976 will be honored at this memorable event led by Chancellor Andrew D. Martin. Celebrants will participate in a meaningful ceremony and receive a keepsake 50th reunion medallion. Family members and guests are welcome to join in this special, not-to-be-missed occasion. 

4 p.m. | Registration
5 p.m. | Medallion Ceremony in Emerson Auditorium
5:45 p.m. | Cocktails and class photo in Frick Forum
6:30 p.m. | Dinner and Music – 3rd floor atrium 

Capacity is limited. Advanced registration recommended

Thursday, May 14, 2026 | 5-6:30 p.m. | Golden Bear Gathering

Reconnect with classmates while exploring a newer space on campus: O’Donnell Lounge inside the Knight Center. This casual evening is open to all Golden Bears (alumni who have already celebrated their 50th reunion) and their guests.

Friday, May 15, 2026

Some events have limited capacity and the event may sell out. We encourage you to register early.

Friday, May 15, 2026 | 7 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | 50th Reunion Commencement Celebration

Experience Commencement once again as you participate in the procession into Francis Olympic Field. Commencement is an important and moving event in the lives of students, faculty, parents, and alumni. Many past 50th reunion attendees look back fondly on this event as one of their favorite experiences during reunion. Family members and guests are welcome to attend and will have special seating during the ceremony. 

7 a.m. | Breakfast for reunion celebrants (50th and Golden Bear) and guests
8 a.m. | 50th reunion celebrant robing
8 a.m. | 50th reunion guests and Golden Bears proceed to reserved seating on Francis Olympic Field
8:30 a.m. | 50th reunion celebrants line up for Commencement procession
9 a.m. | WashU Commencement at Francis Olympic Field
11:30 a.m. | Post-Commencement reception

Friday, May 15, 2026 | 7:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Golden Bear Commencement Celebration

Join the 50th reunion celebrants and families for a light breakfast, available beginning at 7:30 a.m. in Umrath Lounge. Please be sure to arrive by 8:30 a.m. to be ushered to the reserved Golden Bear seating area at Commencement. 

7:30 a.m. | Breakfast
8:30 a.m. | Proceed to reserved seating
9 a.m. | Commencement ceremony
11:30 a.m. | Post-Commencement reception

Friday, May 15, 2026 | 1-3 p.m. | Three Minutes with a Bear

Join us for an afternoon of nostalgia and camaraderie at Whittemore House! This casual event is the perfect opportunity to reconnect with fellow alumni and reminisce about your unforgettable days at WashU. Guests are encouraged to sign up to share their cherished memories and stories from their time on campus. 

Indulge in a selection of nostalgic beverages and desserts that will take you back to your student days, including classic soda fountain drinks and timeless cocktails. Whether you're catching up with old friends or making new connections, this event promises a heartwarming and enjoyable experience for all.

Friday, May 15, 2026 | 1:30-3:30 p.m. | See STL | City-Wide Bus Tour

Explore the rich history and lively spirit of St. Louis on a guided bus tour, expertly led by one of the Missouri History Museum's award-winning guides. As you journey through the city, you'll learn about significant historical events, notable landmarks, and intriguing stories that have shaped St. Louis into the vibrant city it is today. This insightful tour offers a perfect blend of education and entertainment, making it an ideal experience for both visitors and locals eager to deepen their understanding of St. Louis' fascinating heritage. 

Transportation for this event is provided. We are unable to accommodate children's car seats on this tour. 

Capacity is limited. Advanced registration recommended.

$17 per person

Friday, May 15, 2026 | 1:30-4 p.m. | See STL | Old North St. Louis Experience

St. Louis’ Old North neighborhood is one of its oldest and most complex, where historic architecture and modern social changes intersect. This unique guided experience will include a walking tour with one of the Missouri History Museum's award-winning guides, as well as a hands-on visit to Central Print, a local non-profit focusing on the art of traditional printmaking and paper crafts. Each participant will have the opportunity to test their skill and creativity in the art of letterpress printmaking and walk away with an 11x14" customized poster. 

Transportation for this event is provided. We are unable to accommodate children's car seats on this tour. 

Capacity is limited. Advanced registration recommended.

$20 per person

Friday, May 15, 2026 | 4-5 p.m. | Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum Tour

Tour the Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum with a student-educator and enjoy an in-depth exploration of several works from the museum’s renowned permanent collection. Participants will engage with one another in group discussions throughout the tour and are encouraged to explore the special exhibitions before or after the tour. 

Capacity is limited. Advanced registration recommended.

Friday, May 15, 2026 | 6-9 p.m. | History Bears Repeating: WashU, St. Louis, and the history that binds them together

The history of WashU and St. Louis come together in one evening of learning at the Missouri History Museum. Located in beautiful Forest Park, the Missouri History Museum is an impeccable combination of architectural beauty, modern amenities, and historic significance.

5:45 p.m. | Shuttle will pick up outside the Mallinckrodt Center located on Forsyth Blvd.
6 p.m. | Cocktail reception
6:30 p.m. | Talk by history professor in Lee Auditorium
7:30 p.m. | Dinner in the Grand Hall
8 p.m. | Exhibits open for exploration
9 p.m. | Event concludes

$30 per person

Friday, May 15, 2026 | 8:30-10 p.m. | Shabbat Dinner with Chabad

Join us for a classic Shabbat dinner and see how our community has grown, especially in the wake of the events of October 7, 2023. Experience firsthand why Shabbat at Chabad is a highlight for Jewish students each week — offering meaningful Jewish experiences in an inclusive, welcoming environment. Preceded by Davening at 7:30 p.m.

$22 per person

Saturday, May 16, 2026

Some events have limited capacity and the event may sell out. We encourage you to register early.

Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 9-10:30 a.m. | Reframing Aging: Changing the Story We Tell, sponsored by the Harvey A. Friedman Center for Aging at WashU Brown School

Dr. Nancy Morrow-Howell, Co-Director of the Harvey A. Friedman Center for Aging at the Brown School, invites us to rethink the conversation around growing older. By “reframing aging,” we can challenge stereotypes, promote positive aging, and highlight the valuable contributions of older adults.

Capacity is limited. Advanced registration recommended.

Saturday, May 14, 2026 | 9:30-11 a.m. | Greek Life Reception

Reconnect with fellow members of your Greek community (Sorority & Fraternity Life) during reunion weekend! Sororities and fraternities have played an important role for undergraduate students at WashU for more than 100 years, fostering friendships, networks, a strong sense of service, and lifelong bonds. During this reception, visit with old friends and share stories from your time on campus while enjoying refreshments and beverages.

Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 11 a.m.-1 p.m. | Chancellor's Luncheon

Enjoy a luncheon hosted by Andrew D. Martin, WashU’s 15th chancellor. The chancellor will share an exclusive university update and offer a toast to all reunion celebrants and emeritus alumni. Bear Necessities will be on-site selling WashU apparel and swag.

11 a.m. | Cocktails and connections
11:30 a.m. | Luncheon begins
11:45 a.m. | University update and toast with Chancellor Martin
1 p.m. | Luncheon concludes

$30 per person

Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 1:30-3 p.m. | Danforth Campus Tour

From the new construction on the east end to renovations in Mallinckrodt, you and your classmates will explore the next chapter of your beloved WashU community during this tour led by a WashU staff member. Relive a bit of your college experience while celebrating the milestones of the next generation. 

Capacity is limited. Advanced registration is recommended.

Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 1:30-3:30 p.m. | Athletics and Recreation Welcome

Visit the Department of Athletics and Recreation to meet some of our current scholar-champions and coaches. Tour our new state-of-the-art facilities, embedded in the heart of the spaces you remember from your time at WashU! 

Reception: 1:30-2pm
Brief remarks: 2-2:15pm
Facilities tour group 1 departs: 2:15-3:15pm
Facilities tour group 2 departs: 2:30-3:30pm

Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 1:30-3:30 p.m. | ResLife Reunion

Welcome home! Return to the South 40 to visit some of our new spaces, as well as those you remember from your time as a student. Meet the ResLife team, and some of our current resident advisors and Congress of the South 40 leaders.

Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 1:30-3:30 p.m. | Campus Life, Student Clubs and Organizations Reception

Reunite with classmates that participated in sorority/fraternity life, Student Union, and other student clubs and organizations. Meet with current students and Campus Life staff members to hear about social life on campus and share your memories with the Campus Life team.

Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 2:30-4:30 p.m. | Blues in the Afternoon presented by the WashU Black Alumni Council

Join the WashU Black Alumni Council for a relaxed, come-as-you-are reception during reunion and Commencement Weekend. We’ll gather over light bites, refreshing drinks, and live music — creating space to reconnect amid a busy weekend. All members of the WashU community are welcome. Stop by and stay awhile. 

Capacity is limited. Advanced registration recommended.

Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 3-4 p.m. | Art on Campus Tour

Put on your walking shoes and join us for a tour of Danforth Campus artwork, installed as part of the Art on Campus program. The tour begins at the Florence Steinberg Weil Sculpture Garden in front of the north entrance to Weil Hall and includes stops at Bauer Hall, Sumers Recreation Center, and Hillman Hall to see works by acclaimed contemporary artists Jaume Plensa, Katharina Grosse, Ann Hamilton, Ayse Erkmen, Iñigo Manglano-Ovalle, and Dan Graham.

Capacity is limited. Advanced registration recommended.

Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 5-7 p.m. | Baccalaureate Mass and Open House at the Catholic Student Center

Alumni are invited to celebrate graduates at the Baccalaureate Mass and reception at the Catholic Student Center (CSC). Food, drinks, and good company are guaranteed.

Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 6-9:30 p.m. | Golden Bear Gala

Join fellow reunion celebrants for the Golden Bear Gala. Savor a truly special evening with an elegant dinner, drinks, and dancing at the Saint Louis Club in the heart of Clayton. Reminisce with old friends and toast to your shared alma mater, while making wonderful new memories to cherish. 

Cocktail attire is recommended.

$70 per person

Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 6:30-10 p.m. | Class of 1976 Party

Get ready for a celebration 50 years in the making! Enjoy an elegant evening with the Class of 1976 at the St. Louis Club in the heart of Clayton. Catch up over cocktails, a seated dinner, and live music. Reminisce about the good times shared at WashU while making wonderful new memories. 

Cocktail attire is recommended.

$70 per person

Reunion Giving

Reunion is a time to celebrate the experiences that shaped lives, the friendships forged, and the opportunities made possible at WashU. For many, giving back is a way to honor those memories and ensure future generations can build their own.

Did you know tuition revenue covers only 60% of the true cost of a WashU education? Gifts from alumni like you fill that gap, funding scholarships, groundbreaking research, faculty excellence, and the spaces where our community thrives. Your support directly impacts current students and paves the way for the future.

Additional Questions