D’Youville University Announces Record Setting Spring Commencement Featuring NFL Veteran Mack Hollins

D’Youville University will celebrate the Class of 2026 at its Spring Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, May 9 at 10 a.m. at the Buffalo Harborcenter, in what promises to be one of the most distinctive ceremonies in the university’s history.

Approximately 575 graduates are expected to cross the stage, as D’Youville is currently pacing for its largest graduating class in more than six years, with attendance projected to be among the largest in university history.

This year’s keynote speaker will be Mack Hollins, current New England Patriots Wide Receiver and former Buffalo Bills fan favorite, who will also receive an honorary degree in recognition of his leadership, authenticity, and impact beyond the field. Beyond his accomplishments in the NFL, Hollins is known for championing resilience and personal growth through his “Free the Feet” philosophy, a lifestyle centered on barefoot training, mobility, and holistic grounding practices that he credits with strengthening his durability and redefining his career. Through public speaking, apparel, and national partnerships, Hollins encourages others to embrace individuality and rethink conventional limits.

“I’m honored to join the D’Youville community and celebrate the Class of 2026,” said Hollins. “Whether it’s football or life, everything starts with your foundation. Your feet are your roots, and a strong root system helps you weather any storm. I love that D’Youville is embracing individuality and even going for a world record. It shows these graduates aren’t afraid to stand firm, be themselves, and do something bold together.”

In that spirit, D’Youville’s 2026 commencement will culminate with representatives from GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ on site as D’Youville conducts an Official GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ attempt during the commencement ceremony, with participants receiving details in the days leading up to the event. Buffalo most recently added to its growing list of GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ distinctions with a record-setting chicken wing event, and this attempt would mark the city’s ninth current world record, highlighting Buffalo’s growing reputation for record-breaking community pride while showcasing D’Youville’s bold, forward-thinking approach to honoring achievement.

The 2026 Spring Commencement underscores D’Youville’s continued momentum as one of Western New York’s most progressive private universities, an institution defined by innovation, firsts, and a willingness to celebrate success in ways that are meaningful, memorable, and unmistakably its own.

Additional details regarding graduate recognitions and program highlights as well as media coverage plans will be announced closer to the ceremony.

For more information about D’Youville University, visit dyu.edu

About D’Youville University 

D’Youville University is a nationally ranked private university founded in 1908 and headquartered in Buffalo, New York, which offers degrees in the health sciences and business. D’Youville University promotes a healthy mind, body, and spirit. Through transformational educational experiences, students are prepared for growth, career success, and upward mobility. For more information, visit dyu.edu.