Student fist bumps other graduates at commencement.
Gonzaga University

Commencement 2024


Gonzaga University’s 131st commencement ceremony honors the achievements of the class of 2024!

Students seated at Commencement 2023

Schedule of Ceremonies

Saturday, May 11

Law Commencement

  • 9 to 10:30 a.m. - McCarthey Athletic Center

Graduate Commencement

  • 12 to 2 p.m. - McCarthey Athletic Center

Commencement Mass

  • 2:45 to 3:45 p.m. - St. Aloysius Church

Sunday, May 12

Undergraduate Commencement

  • 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. - Spokane Veterans Memorial Arena
    • Participating students are allotted six guest tickets.
    • Tickets will be available starting April 15, 2024


two graduates taking a selfie

Commencement Resources

From graduation announcements to how to wear your hood, find resources for your big day!

Student walking with diploma.

Venue and Ticketing

Undergraduate ceremony requires tickets for up to six guests at the Spokane Arena. Tickets available April 15. No tickets or guest limits for other ceremonies.

Our Distinguished Speakers & Honorees

Edward Taylor, Jr., Ph.D. is on the board of trustees and regents for Gonzaga University.

Ed Taylor, Ph.D.
Undergraduate Commencement Speaker

As vice provost and dean of undergraduate academic affairs at the University of Washington, Dr. Taylor prepares undergraduates to serve as leaders in their communities, and has addressed inequities to improve access to higher education. He will be awarded a honorary Doctor of Public Service degree.

Angelique Albert, CEO of Native Forward Scholars Fund

Angelique Albert, MBA
Graduate Commencement Speaker

Ms. Albert is the CEO of the Native Forward Scholars Fund, the largest provider of direct scholarships to Native students in the United States, and is an accomplished artist for Native culture. She will be awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws degree.

Dr. Robert M. Gates, Former Secretary of Defense

Robert Gates, Ph.D.
Law Commencement Speaker

After having served in high-profile roles for seven presidential administrations, including director of the Central Intelligence Agency, Dr. Gates became president of Texas A&M University and chancellor of the College of William & Mary. He will be awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws degree.

Marianne Poxleitner is on the board of regents for Gonzaga University.

Marianne Poxleitner, Ph.D.
President's Award of Distinction

Faculty President
April 2020 - May 2024

Whitney Franklin

Whitney Franklin
President's Award of Distinction

Staff Assembly President
June 2020 - December 2023

Minnie Alexander, J.D., 2024 Gonzaga Law Medal Honoree

Minnie Alexander, J.D.
Gonzaga Law Medal

Ms. Alexander is the General Counsel and Corporate Secretary for Recreational Equipment, Inc. (REI) with a robust career in service to large corporations. She will receive an honorary Doctor of Laws.

Rachel Gotvald, Undergraduate Commencement 2024 Student Speaker

Rachel Gotvald
Undergraduate Commencement
Student Speaker

Bachelor of Arts, Honors

Tracy Madden-McMahon

Tracy Madden-McMahon
Graduate Commencement
Student Speaker

Master of Arts

Glass door with Gonzaga Law seal printed on it

Ben Johnsrud
Law Commencement
Student Speaker

Juris Doctor

Contact Us

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College Hall 018, AD Box 100
502 E. Boone Ave
Spokane, WA 99258