WATCH: UC Celebrates the Graduating Class of 2011
View the slide show of UC's spring graduation ceremonies
After a very brief dry spell in Cincinnati this spring, overnight thunderstorms were still looming through the morning of the University of Cincinnatis Commencement ceremonies, but they cleared out just as the morning ceremony got underway.
Even better, the sun was shining brightly after the morning ceremony, allowing for family photos of graduates as they took one last look at UCs spectacular campus before setting off on their lives as UC alumni.
UCs Fifth Third Arena was filled to capacity for the celebrations, as 4,843 students applied for graduation this spring.
President Gregory H. Williams told the graduates they join the ranks of nearly 250,000 living alumni.
As our newest alumni, each of you will make your own mark in our world. Today opens a promising new chapter in your life journey a journey that brought each of you to UC with your own story and circumstances, he said.
UC President Gregory H. Williams
Class of 2011, your graduation today is mostly a beginning for a new stage of your life as someone fortunate to attain a college education, an education that means much more to you and your community than a mere job or career, said President Williams.
UC alumnus John F. Barrett, chairman, president and CEO of Western & Southern Financial Group, addressed the graduates at both ceremonies, encouraging them to believe in the power of their dreams. To dream and then study hard use your skills and open the door to great opportunities, both in your professional and personal lives.
John F. Barrett
In realizing one dream, be ready for the next, because achieving one goal often creates another opportunity, so stay open to opportunities, he said. Whatever you do, be an active participant, not a witness.
UCs spring ceremonies also celebrated the Doctoral Hooding and Masters Recognition Ceremony on June 10.
Video highlights from the Doctoral Hooding and Master's Recognition Ceremony
The slide show features highlights from all ceremonies.
Related Stories
IMPACT Innovation at IDD Education center celebrates milestone
April 11, 2025
The IDD Education Center’s IMPACT Innovation program celebrates a major milestone as associate Haley secures a position at Adrian Durban Florist. Through hands-on training, mentorship, and community partnerships, IMPACT Innovation helps adults with autism develop independence, communication, and workplace skills. Haley’s mother shares how the program has supported her daughter's growth, while program director Genna Kieper highlights the role of job coaching in Haley’s success. Adrian Durban Florist, a long-time partner, continues to be a champion. The IDD Education Center remains committed to expanding employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
UC Journalism to host Hall of Fame, Young Alumni Awards
Event: April 24, 2025 6:00 PM
The College of Arts and Sciences’ journalism department will host the Hall of Fame and Young Alumni Awards to celebrate the achievements and accomplishments of its graduates. Induction into the UC Journalism Hall of Fame is a special honor reserved for UC alumni who have excelled in the profession of journalism and media, or individuals who have made a significant contribution to journalism at UC.
Bradford pear trees look pretty, smell awful. Why are they...
April 2, 2025
WLWT talks to UC biology Professor Theresa Culley about Ohio's ban on the sale or planting of nonnative and invasive pear trees. The trees are showing up in many parks and wild areas where they are crowding out native species.