Brooklyn College seniors upset they won’t walk at graduation; school cites time limits
The ceremony for the Class of 2026 is scheduled for May 28 at 9 a.m. at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn.
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Some Brooklyn College seniors are speaking out after learning they will not walk across the stage at this year’s commencement — a moment many say they have been working toward for years.
The ceremony for the Class of 2026 is scheduled for May 28 at 9 a.m. at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn. But instead of hearing their names and walking individually, students will remain seated and be recognized by school or academic discipline.
For many, that came as a surprise — and a disappointment.
“I feel disrespected,” said Jayden Woodall, a TV, radio and emerging media graduate. “People pay thousands of dollars in tuition. They put their blood, sweat and tears into their education, and this is the result?”
Another graduating student, Vincent Dixon, said the moment of walking the stage matters.
“I did undergrad at a different school, and they called names there,” Dixon said. “It really meant a lot — just hearing my name and walking across the stage.”
Students have also taken to social media, calling the decision “incredibly disappointing” and “insane” to learn so close to graduation. Some say the school should make changes — like cutting down on speakers or adjusting the schedule — to allow graduates to walk.
News 12 found there is also another CUNY graduation scheduled at the Barclays Center later that same day.
In a statement, Brooklyn College said time and venue constraints are behind the decision:
“Brooklyn College recognizes how meaningful Commencement is for graduates and their families. This year’s Commencement at the Barclays Center has a required end time to accommodate another graduation ceremony immediately afterward, which is common. Each graduation is different, given time and venue constraints. While individual stage walking was possible at two recent graduations, for all others, the College has not been able to accommodate individual recognition. This year, as we have with most commencements, graduates will be formally recognized by academic discipline and by school, master’s students first, followed by baccalaureate students, during the ceremony. Brooklyn College is proud of the Class of 2026 and looks forward to honoring their achievements at Commencement.”
Despite that, some students say the explanation falls short.
“Get rid of the guest speakers,” Woodall said. “We don’t need that.”
Now, some are taking action. A petition calling for changes has already gained more than 900 signatures.
The ceremony is still set to move forward as planned.
