On March 12, 1925, "College Heights" was first performed at chapel assembly in Van Meter Auditorium. Over 100 years later, our Alma Mater still connects Hilltoppers through the years.

During each College Recognition Ceremony, a student vocalist sings the Alma Mater. Learn more about the Alma Mater.

A tradition reserved for former mascots, graduates who have shared the Hilltopper Spirit as Big Red may choose to wear Big Red's gloves for a spectacular reveal. 

Additionally, during their respective College Recognition Ceremonies, these Hilltoppers have the opportunity to be recognized and lead their classmates in singing the Fight Song one final time.

Did you know that Hilltoppers in the Department of Agriculture & Food Science help assemble the floral arrangements for Commencement and College Recognition Ceremonies?

Students work under the guidance of Roger Dennis, Director of the Floral Design & Training Center, for a unique hands-on learning experience.

Graduates receive a free commemorative Red Towel to mark their graduation, and there are multiple opportunities to wave your Red Towel for a photo full of Hilltopper Spirit. Wave it proudly during Topper Walk and at the conclusion of Commencement and College Recognition Ceremonies!

Graduates may choose to decorate their grad cap or keep it classic. Whether showcasing Hilltopper pride, sharing words of wisdom, or looking ahead to the next chapter, it's a memorable keepsake to commemorate your WKU journey. 

In addition to wearing academic honor cords and the Mahurin Honors College medallion (if earned), graduates may choose to wear stoles that represent their student organizations, highlight their major, or honor important individuals in their WKU journey.

Keep an eye out for the faculty members who have made an impact on your WKU journey at Commencement and your College Recognition Ceremony.

Whether applauding you as you walk into Diddle Arena, giving you a high-five while waiting in the Auxiliary Gym, or taking a photo after the ceremony ends, they are here to cheer you on as you start your next chapter.

Whether celebrating with family members, friends, or community members, there's multiple opportunities to mark the moment with the ones who've supported your journey.

Tickets are not required for guests to attend Commencement or your College Recognition Ceremony.

WKU ROTC cadets who graduate and commission as 2nd Lieutenants into the U.S. Army are recognized during Commencement and College Recognition Ceremonies.

Remember your very first Topper Walk at M.A.S.T.E.R. Plan? It's time for one final walk down the Hill.

Led by Big Red and a drumline, graduates line up at the Kentucky Museum and walk to Houchens Industries - L.T. Smith Stadium together to take their seats on the field for Commencement.

Kick off the celebration by walking down the Avenue of Champions, proudly waving your Red Towel while family and friends cheer you on. It's a moment you'll never forget. 

There's no better way to kick off your alumni journey than in front of the Martens Alumni Center. Give Big Red a high-five and get ready to graduate. This spot also offers a perfect full-circle moment, if you captured a photo here while on a campus tour.

Sitting across from Gordon Wilson Hall, this stone monument is a timeless backdrop for any grad photo. The Pylon features WKU's motto, "The Spirit Makes The Master," framed by trees and flowers and at the perfect height for pictures. 

Also known as the "Kissing Bridge," this campus spot behind Gordon Wilson Hall and Van Meter Hall is cherished by alumni. As you walk into a new chapter, it's a fantastic choice for grad photos.

Once the entryway to our original athetic stadium, the Colonnade now serves as an iconic outdoor study spot and area for events such as PCAL's annual Fall Festival.

Wave your Red Towel in photos for a stunning pop of color at this landmark at the top of the Hill.

With the stone steps symbolizing your climb to the top and colorful banners that add a pop of Hilltopper spirit, this historic building makes a perfect backdrop for grad photos.

It's also a full-circle moment for graduates who majored in music, theatre, or dance and performed inside the 1,000 person auditorium during their WKU journey.

Dedicated in 2005 as part of WKU's Centennial Celebration, the fountain and overlook offers views of the lawn and Bowling Green as you take your grad photos. 

Looking for a different perspective? Head further down the Hill onto the lawn for the perfect cap-throwing photo spot.

Located in the heart of campus, Centennial Mall offers views of campus looking toward DSU and the Guthrie Bell Tower. 

Graduating in the spring? Make sure to capture a photo under the cherry blossoms in full bloom! 

A new favorite on campus, graduates can take photos framed by the columns in this gazebo overlooking Garrett Plaza. It's on the pathway connecting Cherry Hall to FAC. It's also close to the Old Fort Bridge. 

Looking for a peaceful spot off the regular path? Check out the labyrinth and fountain at Chandler Memorial Chapel! Across the street from the Kentucky Museum, this area is framed by trees and plants.