SP2 Commencement
Congratulations Class of 2027!
Graduation Schedule
Pre-Ceremony Reception
Saturday, May 22, 2027
Location TBD
3:30 – 6:00pm ET
Graduation Ceremony
Saturday, May 22, 2027
The Palestra
223 S 33rd St, Philadelphia, PA
6:30 – 8:30pm ET
270th University Commencement Ceremony
Monday, May 24, 2027
Franklin Field
235 S 33rd St, Philadelphia, PA 19104
10:15AM ET
Visit the University Commencement for more information
https://commencement.upenn.edu/(opens in a new tab)
2026 Graduation Speaker
Accessibility Information
The Palestra doors open at 5pm for ADA seating. Our accessibility team will be stationed at 33rd St. at the crosswalk between Franklin Field and Walnut St. near the Palestra entrance. A golf cart will transport those with accessibility needs from 33rd St. to the Palestra where staff will be available to guide them to the designated sections. For guests attending the Pre-Ceremony Reception at the Inn at Penn, there will be transportation from the Inn at Penn to the Palestra starting at 4:30PM.
Additional Information
Those who requested accessible seating in the Palestra will have reserved seats marked with their graduates’ names. Others in their party will be able to sit right behind them.
After graduation, there will be two golf carts assisting those in need from the Palestra back to the handicap sign on 33rd St. If requesting this service, we greatly appreciate your patience as our staff members work diligently to get everyone back and forth in a timely manner.
Seating Chart
Accessible seating is available in the following sections:
- Section 202/203
- Section 216-217
- Section 218/219
Frequently Asked Questions
- At the SP2 Graduation Ceremony, graduate names are called and students walk across the stage.
- At the University Commencement Ceremony, schools are recognized by their Dean. Graduates do not walk across the stage.
- Diplomas are not distributed at either ceremony.
- Students are not required to attend either ceremony.
- Tickets are not required for either ceremony.
Line up for the graduation ceremony starts at 5:15 pm but you should definitely consider joining us for SP2’s Pre-Ceremony Reception at 4:00pm.
2026 Student Prizes & Awards
This award is presented to meritorious students in the Doctor of Philosophy in Social Welfare program who are continuing the process of completing coursework.
This award is presented to a meritorious student in the Doctor of Clinical Social Work program who has completed the third year of coursework.
This award is presented to a graduate student in the Master of Science in Social Policy program who has demonstrated a record of intellectual inquiry and academic excellence and who is committed to using research to analyze and shape social policy locally, nationally, and/or globally.
This award is presented to a meritorious graduating student in the Nonprofit Leadership program who has a record of academic excellence and has shown promise in using their talents and knowledge to create positive social impact.
This award is presented to a graduating international student in the Nonprofit Leadership program who embodies a commitment to social impact, who has a record of academic excellence and who is committed to using their talents and knowledge to make a difference in the world.
This award is presented to a meritorious graduating student in the Master of Social Work program who is selected based on academic performance and one or more of the following: exemplary student leadership, innovative activities in the field practicum, and exceptional community service.
This award is presented to a member of the Master of Social Work graduating class who, through their writing, participation in class discussions, and experience, has demonstrated an interest in, and a working knowledge of, the international and cultural dimensions of social work practice, and the application of practice to research.
SP2 student who has had a positive impact on the SP2 community through their collegiality, service, and community engagement inside and outside of the classroom.
2026 Excellence in Teaching Awards
The Excellence in Teaching Award is presented to members of the standing and non-standing faculty in recognition of excellence in teaching and mentoring.
Full Time Faculty Recipients
Allison Werner-Lin, PhD, LCSW
Kim McKay, PhD, LSW, MEd
Part Time Lecturer Recipients
Meredith Myers, PhD
Reggie Jones, LCSW, MSS, MLSP