D’Youville University Celebrates Class of 2026 with Record-Setting Commencement Ceremony

On May 9, 2026, D’Youville University held its Spring Commencement ceremony at the Harborcenter in downtown Buffalo, celebrating the achievements of the Class of 2026 in front of a packed arena of family, friends, faculty, and supporters. More than 400 graduates crossed the stage, marking a milestone moment in their academic and personal journeys.

This year’s ceremony was highlighted by a historic achievement, as D’Youville officially set a GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for the most people simultaneously foot clapping. With 524 participants verified during an on-site adjudication, the record-setting moment brought the arena together in a shared celebration that reflected the energy and spirit of the graduating class.

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The ceremony featured keynote speaker Mack Hollins, current New England Patriots wide receiver and former Buffalo Bills fan favorite, who also received an honorary degree in recognition of his leadership and impact beyond the field. Known for his “Free the Feet” philosophy, Hollins has encouraged individuals to think differently, stay grounded, and build both physical and mental strength, an approach that carried directly into the ceremony’s record-setting moment.

“When you leave here today, as a record holder, go build something,” Hollins said. “Be willing to pivot when things shift. Keep going when people don’t get it… stay consistent, stay ready, and trust that what you’re putting in will show up for you later. The work always pays off.”

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In addition to his address, Hollins helped lead the official GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ attempt, demonstrating multiple ways to “foot clap” and energizing the crowd as graduates and attendees came together to set the record.

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“What you are doing is different. But it fits,” Hollins added. “Because doing something a little different, or being willing to step outside of what is expected, is going to matter a lot more than checking the box and being like everyone else.”

Student Body President

Kimora Parks, a nursing student from Brooklyn, New York and two-term President of the Student Government Association, delivered the student address, reflecting on the shared journey of growth, resilience, and perseverance that defined the Class of 2026.

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Drawing on her experiences at D’Youville, Parks spoke to the power of persistence and embracing the unknown, reminding her classmates that success is often built over time.

“At D’Youville, we had the opportunity to grow, to fail, to try again, to reinvent, to evolve,” Parks said. “Standing here today is proof of what slow, steady growth can create, one step at a time… ‘I’ll figure it out’ is not just a phrase, it’s a skill.”

Her message resonated with graduates, capturing the mindset that carried them through challenges and will continue to guide them as they move forward.

President’s Remarks

D’Youville President Dr. Lorrie A. Clemo addressed graduates throughout the ceremony, emphasizing the significance of their accomplishments and the mindset that will carry them forward.

“What stands out about this class is not that everything went according to plan, but that you learned how to move forward when it didn’t,” Clemo said. “You adjusted, you stayed focused, and you continued to put in the work. And over time, that effort added up.”

Clemo also noted that the record-setting moment reflected more than just a shared experience, but the willingness of the Class of 2026 to step into something new and make it their own.

Tradition and Celebration

The ceremony also featured the return of D’Youville’s “Dog Ate My Debt” tradition, where one graduating student was selected at random to have their D’Youville student loan debt paid in full. This year’s drawing included the participation of the university’s newest costumed mascot, Saint, adding another memorable and celebratory moment to the day.

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The 2026 Spring Commencement showcased D’Youville University’s continued momentum, combining tradition, innovation, and a focus on student success. From a record-setting achievement to messages of perseverance and growth, the ceremony reflected a class ready to move forward with confidence.

As graduates left the arena as world record holders, they did so prepared to build their futures, adapt to whatever comes next, and make a meaningful impact in their communities and professions.