Congratulations, Class of 2026!

Class of '26, this is your time! Commencement marks an important passage in every student’s academic journey—from student to graduate and now a lifelong Mount Mercy alum.

Commencement 2026 schedule

Congratulations graduates for attending Commencement on Sunday, May 17, 2026!

A recording of the Commencement ceremony, held at the Alliant Energy PowerHouse, 370 1st Ave. NE, Cedar Rapids, Iowa on May 17, is available on Mount Mercy University’s YouTube channel.

 

Friday, May 15

3:00 PM | Honors Convocation
Chapel of Mercy, Busse Center
Honors Convocation is held yearly and recognizes graduating seniors for their achievements through individual awards, Honors Program completion, and the President's Award.

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6:00 PM | Nursing Pinning Ceremony

Hennessey Recreation Center
Join us as the Martin-Herold College of Nursing & Health recognizes our BSN and RN-BSN graduates’ accomplishments during the Nursing Pinning Ceremony. A livestream and recording of this event will be available on Mount Mercy's YouTube channel.

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Saturday, May 16

5:00 PM | Commencement Mass & Blessing of Graduates
Chapel of Mercy, Busse Center
Join as the graduating students of 2026 are recognized and blessed during this special Commencement Mass. Those of all faiths are welcome to participate. 

Sunday, May 17

10:00 AM | Commencement Ceremony
Alliant Energy PowerHouse, 370 1st Ave. NE
Join us as we confer the degrees of all of our 2026 graduates. A livestream and recording of this event will be available on Mount Mercy's YouTube channel.

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Immediately following the Ceremony | Picnic on the Hill

Rohde Family Plaza, Main Campus
Join us on the Hill after your ceremony for lunch, entertainment, and to celebrate with your peers and professors.

Class of 2026 student speakers

Image of Chloe Day

Chloe Day '26

Chloe Day ’26 is from Galesburg, Illinois, and is graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education, with endorsements in Reading and Level I Instructional Strategist.

Chloe was actively involved across campus as a member of the women’s bowling team and a dedicated student leader. She served on the Student Government Association as treasurer, on the Student Activities Board as vice president of big events and Homecoming director, and was a resident assistant and Admissions work-study team leader. She also contributed academically as an ACE content tutor, writing peer tutor, and peer academic coach, and was a member of the Honors Program.

She is grateful for the lifelong friendships she formed and the wide range of opportunities that shaped her Mount Mercy experience.

Following graduation, Chloe will begin her career as an admissions counselor at Baker University in Baldwin City, Kansas. She will also serve as a graduate assistant for the bowling program and begin pursuing a Master of Science in Higher Education Leadership.


Image of Joe Boyle

 Joe Boyle '26 MA-MFT

Joe Boyle ’26 MA-MFT has more than 25 years of professional experience that spans across insurance, finance, and internal audit. Joe has previously built a career centered on helping organizations strengthen their financial performance and operate more efficiently and effectively. Throughout this time, he worked with a wide variety of companies to identify opportunities for growth, improve their internal processes, and implement sustainable solutions.

Known for his thoughtful and results-driven approach, Joe developed a deep appreciation for the systems that shape outcomes, whether in business or in people’s lives. Over time, this perspective inspired a shift in focus: from improving organizations to supporting individuals and families more directly.

Now graduating with a master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy (MA-MFT), Joe is beginning a new chapter as a therapist. He is dedicated to helping people navigate challenges, strengthen their relationships, and create meaningful changes in their lives. Drawing on decades of experience in problem-solving, communication, and understanding complex systems, Joe brings a unique and grounded perspective to the field of therapy.

Frequently asked questions

All students planning to participate in Commencement must:

  • Apply for graduation through the Office of the Registrar
  • Meet financial obligations by noon the Thursday before Commencement to receive your diploma and get your official transcripts

Diplomas will be mailed following graduation. Questions? Contact registrar@mtmercy.edu or 319-363-1323 x1584.

You'll be able to access the PowerHouse arena either through the main entrance on 1st Avenue or via skywalk from the parking ramp/garage across the PowerHouse.

All students and guests are encouraged to park in the Convention Center parking ramp/garage on 1st Avenue (361 1st Avenue) across from the Alliant Energy PowerHouse/DoubleTree Hotel (free street parking also is available).

From the ramp, please use the skywalk located on the 3rd floor. If you're coming in on the ground floor by the box office and continue straight to check-in in the grand ballroom.

Contact events@mtmercy.edu for possible accommodations.

During the ceremony, you’ll receive a handout with information on how to order the large program with all graduate names listed. Programs will be mailed after Commencement—please allow several weeks for printing and mailing.

Photography

Commencement photos will be available on our Flickr page and posted on Mount Mercy's social media channels. Additional photos can be purchased from teamphotonetwork.com within 48 hours of the ceremony. Click on "Find my Pics" and enter the password GRAD2026. Any questions about purchased photos can be directed to Joe Photo at 319-362-6187.

Videography

All Commencement ceremonies were livestreamed and are available for replay on Mount Mercy's YouTube channel. Full video coverage of the ceremonies was provided by Pro Video Productions of Cedar Rapids, Iowa. To order your own copy after the ceremony, visit provideoweb.com/shop to receive a downloadable file via email or digital file via USB drive once the video has been edited.

Programs

During the ceremony, you’ll receive a handout with information on how to order the large program with all graduate names listed. Programs will be mailed after Commencement—please allow several weeks for printing and mailing.

Here to help

Have a question about ceremony details and accommodations?
Contact events@mtmercy.edu.

Want to know your graduation status?
Visit or reach out to:

211 Warde Hall
registrar@mtmercy.edu | 319-363-1323 x1584
Monday-Thursday: 8:00 AM-4:30 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM-4:00 PM

Prepare for your next milestone.

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