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Aspirational difference-makers: The Class of 2025

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Aspirational difference-makers: The Class of 2025
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In his final commencement address as chancellor, James Schmidt reminded May graduates at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire of all they’d accomplished in reaching this goal — and all that awaits them in their futures.

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I can say, without a doubt, that it is the people who come here to learn, and teach, and grow together that set this place apart. In the process, we awaken empathy and courage in one another, fueling our desire to make the world a better place for ourselves, our families and our communities.
Chancellor James Schmidt

Below is a collection of photos that help tell the joyous story of spring commencement 2025.

Four students in a group shot near Stowe gateway

Although ceremonies now take place at The Sonnentag, campus spots like the Stowe Gateway will always be a draw for keepsake graduation photos.

two nursing grads in scrubs sitting on textbooks under the archway

Caps and gowns may be traditional for graduation photos, but for Blugold nursing graduates, the iconic blue scrubs are a must for a few nostalgic images.

two grads in cap and gown in a flower bed

Just enough blooms left on the daffodils to capture the blue and gold of the mall.

Graduates on the state at UWEC-BC turning their tassels

On May 15, a commencement ceremony took place in Rice Lake for graduates completing associate degrees on the UW-Eau Claire – Barron County campus.

group of grads lining up in Field House for commencement

Students lined up in the Sonnentag Fieldhouse as they awaited the processionals and ceremonies.

Morning processional for graduation

Flanked the whole way by faculty, administrators and student leaders, excited graduates were ushered into the event center with cheers and smiles.

Latina student in heritage stole and honor cords

Commencement cords, stoles and medallions celebrate students’ academic achievements, affiliations and heritage.

Group of graduates listening to speaker

For many students, the day is a mix of excitement, pride and even some bittersweet emotions as they take in their accomplishments.

Sonnentag for commencement, full house, lights down

Both morning and afternoon ceremonies filled The Sonnentag to near capacity.

John Noltner delivering the 'Charge to the Class'
Every day you get to choose if you lean into division or if you move toward healing. Every day you get to choose if you will take or if you will give. Every day you get to choose if you will help another human, build a connection, show compassion, plant a seed of hope in someone who desperately needs it. You get to choose.
John Noltner, photographer and '90 journalism graduate
Chancellor high fives to graduates he passes exiting the arena

When Chancellor Schmidt says commencement is his favorite day of the year, he clearly means it.

Family Tshirts for graduation to honor their grad

The love, support and family pride for Blugolds on commencement day brings smiles all around!

Two friends smiling after ceremony, peace fingers

And that’s a wrap, folks. 

Cap decor says "A Beautiful Day to Graduate
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