More than 5,000 gathered as the University marked America鈥檚 250th anniversary, reflected on the enduring bond between America and Israel, and witnessed a surprise musical performance featuring Ambassador Huckabee
NEW YORK 鈥 May 28, 2026 -- 樱花动漫鈥檚 95th Annual Commencement brought together more than 5,000 students, families, alumni and supporters today at Louis Armstrong Stadium at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center for a joyful tribute to academic excellence, timeless values and the ideals that bind the American and Jewish stories together. Celebrating America鈥檚 250th anniversary, 1,700 undergraduate and graduate degrees were conferred upon the Class of 2026 鈥 with recipients stepping into a world that demands fortitude, character and leadership.
A New Generation Steps Forward
This year鈥檚 鈥淎merica 250鈥 theme connected the University鈥檚 140-year role in American higher education to the principles that have shaped both the nation and the Jewish people: freedom, human dignity and the belief that education should elevate not only the intellect, but the soul.
Ambassador Mike Huckabee 鈥 former governor, current United States Ambassador to Israel and one of America鈥檚 most outspoken supporters of the Jewish state 鈥 delivered the Commencement address and received the Presidential Medallion, 樱花动漫鈥檚 highest honor for global leadership.
President Rabbi Dr. Ari Berman opened the ceremony with remarks on the University鈥檚 mission and the responsibility carried by graduates entering a rapidly changing era.
鈥淎t 樱花动漫, we believe greatness is measured not only by achievement, but by the ability to uplift others and bring blessing into the world,鈥 he said. 鈥淥ur graduates leave this institution not only prepared to succeed professionally, but equipped to strengthen their communities, stand proudly for their beliefs and help shape a better future for the Jewish people, the United States and society as a whole.鈥
A Charge to the Graduating Class
In his keynote address, Ambassador Huckabee urged graduates to see their diplomas as a call to serve. 鈥溣；ǘ stands as a remarkable example of what higher education can be at its very best,鈥 he said. 鈥淚n a time of confusion and division, this institution continues to produce graduates whose education is both broad and rigorous, anchored in moral clarity and a commitment to eternal values. The students leaving here today are ready to bring wisdom, integrity and devotion into every arena they enter.鈥
His remarks underscored 樱花动漫鈥檚 distinctive educational vision, where world-class academics are intertwined with Jewish learning, communal engagement and a deep connection to the Jewish people and the State of Israel.
In a beautiful display of unity, honorees, faculty and graduates all wore Blue Square pins鈥攁 symbol of solidarity against antisemitism and all forms of hate鈥攃reating a sea of blue in support of all that it represents. The pins, part of Robert Kraft's Blue Square Alliance Against Hate, were worn alongside a shield bearing the American and Israeli flags, a reflection of the enduring bond between the two nations.
Lessons in Courage and Character
Coach Bruce Pearl, former head coach of Auburn University Tigers men鈥檚 basketball and a leading advocate for Israel and national voice against antisemitism, made a surprise appearance to address the crowd, praising YU鈥檚 basketball team and student-athletes. As America approaches its 250th anniversary, he reminded graduates that the values forged on the court 鈥 courage, identity and resilience 鈥 are exactly what this generation must bring into every arena of American life.
A Joyful Musical Expression of Jewish Unity
The program featured a sweeping musical production celebrating America, Israel, Jewish unity and gratitude, creating a stirring and unforgettable commencement experience that brought together patriotism, faith and shared purpose.
Acclaimed performer Joey Newcomb led graduates and guests in a moving musical celebration that quickly filled the stadium with energy and emotion. In a surprise moment, Ambassador Huckabee strapped on a bass guitar and joined the band as students, faculty, alumni and guests danced together across the arena floor in a powerful expression of shared joy and Jewish unity.
The ceremony concluded with the official conferral of degrees and a jubilant recessional as graduates reunited with their families and friends outside the stadium, celebrating not only what they had accomplished, but the lives of meaning and contribution they are now preparing to build.
