The university held its largest-ever commencement ceremony May 18, at Tivoli Quad, where a record-setting total of 2,144 students graduated.
Spring 2019 Commencement by the numbers
- Largest-ever graduating class: 2,144
- Record number of bachelor’s degrees: 1,421
- Record number of doctoral degrees: 88
- Record commencement attendance: 10,000
The first three newly licensed Colorado teachers to earn a four-year CU Denver bachelor’s degree in elementary education entirely at Otero Junior College in LaJunta, Colo., received their diplomas at the ceremony. The first Latinx cohort of the Doctor of Education Leadership for Educational Equity (EdD) graduated, as well.
Honors and awards
The ceremony acknowledged CU President Bruce Benson, the longest-serving CU president in more than 65 years, who will retire in July. Chancellor Dorothy Horrell made a surprise announcement that the courtyard area between Student Commons and the Lola & Rob Salazar Student Wellness Center will be named the Benson Terrace in recognition of President Benson and First Lady Marcy Benson and their service to the university.
Kathleen Beatty, PhD, dean emeritus of the School of Public Affairs, was awarded the University Medal for her service to higher education and the local, national and global community. Jacob Jabs, president and CEO of American Furniture Warehouse, received the honorary degree Doctor of Humane Letters for his achievements as a business and community leader, his commitment to inspiring and educating the next generation of entrepreneurs and his support of the CU Denver Business School.
