Northwestern University celebrates 168th Commencement at the United Center

EVANSTON, Ill. – Northwestern University celebrated its 168th annual commencement on Sunday, June 14 at the United Center in Chicago. Family, friends and supporters filled the arena to cheer on more than 2,500 Northwestern graduates. 

Actor, producer and entrepreneur Sarah Jessica Parker delivered this year’s commencement address. Parker encouraged graduates as they embark on their post-Northwestern journey to consider the “what ifs” as a way to nurture their curiosity, maintain their individuality and to keep being a dreamer.  

“Who better than you to be bold, to be generous, to let curiosity be your guide,” Parker said. She continued, “To believe in a ‘What If’ world of love, justice and compassion until it’s not a what if anymore.”   

Parker also encouraged the Class of 2026 to follow her golden rules: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you” and to “rely on decency, principle and kindness.” 

Parker was one of four who was presented with an honorary degree.

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