Announcing UMBC’s Spring 2026 Commencement Speakers

UMBC President Valerie Sheares Ashby announces the university’s Spring 2026 commencement speakers, Jonathon Heyward, Music Director of the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, and Holden Thorp, scientist and higher education leader. In this special message, President Sheares Ashby reflects on the significance of commencement and the inspiring voices who will address UMBC graduates as they celebrate this important milestone.