Class of 2026 to celebrate commencement May 12
Students from the Class of 2026 will officially earn the title of “doctor” at the 2026 McGovern Medical School commencement ceremony May 12.
Festivities begin 9 a.m. at NRG Arena, 1 NRG Pkwy. Graduates should arrive between 7 and 7:30 a.m.
There is ample seating at the venue; however, guests are encouraged to arrive at least 30 minutes early to secure the best available seats, as all seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. Parking is available at the arena for $28. Attendees are also able to take the METRORail Red Line, which has a stop outside the arena on Fannin Street.
A livestream is available for those unable to attend.
The keynote speaker for the 2026 commencement ceremony is Rex Marco, MD, professor in the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at McGovern Medical School. A prominent spine surgeon at UTHealth Houston, Marco found a new purpose in his profession after a serious bicycle accident turned him into a patient. His life-changing injury granted him a new perspective on the importance of hope.
Students and their families are encouraged to share commencement photos on social media. Use #HoustonsHealthUniversity and #UTHealthHoustonMade to be part of the UTHealth Houston celebration.
As a reminder, only official regalia may be worn at commencement ceremonies, including cords, sashes, and stoles distributed with the approval of McGovern Medical School. No other items are permitted to be worn or carried. Decorations or alterations of regalia are not permitted.
For more information, contact Karla Trochez, Admissions and Student Affairs coordinator.