The Disability Studies Interdepartmental Degree Program celebrates its third year, and its third graduating class of Disability Studies majors and minors. The Class of 2026 represents an important milestone in the continued growth of the program.
Chair Marks opened the ceremony and reflected on the wholeness of body and mind in her address to the graduates and audience. She encouraged graduates to continue learning from those around them and to work collaboratively in creating a world of greater possibility.
In her remarks, Dean Galván congratulated the Class of 2026 and highlighted how their interdisciplinary understanding of disability equips them to lead meaningful change in their future careers and communities.
Former AVP Lucy Blackmar delivered the keynote address and shared the inspiring history of UCLA’s Disability Studies program, in particular the foundational work led by Jayne Spencer and Jessie Alpaugh, two extraordinary women who identified as having disabilities. Former AVP Blackmar reminded graduates that they leave UCLA with a profound understanding of disability that celebrates our shared humanity and redefines normal.
Continuing a cherished tradition, each graduate had the opportunity to reflect on the impact of the Disability Studies program and express gratitude for the family, friends, faculty, and mentors who supported them throughout their journey. Many of them were excited to share their post-UCLA plans which for many of them included graduate programs and their first jobs as alumni. Loved ones listened to these heartfelt reflections before celebrating each graduate with enthusiastic cheers as they crossed the stage.
On behalf of the faculty and staff of the Disability Studies program to the Class of 2026: As you embark on your next chapter, we hope your understanding of disability and society continues to inspire courage and resilience. We are proud to welcome you as lifelong members of the UCLA Disability Studies community.
Congratulations to the Class of 2026!
