What You Need to Know for Commencement 2026

Robert Thompson, Trustee Professor in the Newhouse School, believes the “Yellowstone” spinoff could succeed, but only if another creator can match Taylor Sheridan’s execution.

Ryan Griffiths, professor in the Maxwell School, writes about the realities, challenges and hopes around the idea of secession in the U.S.

Terence Lau, dean of the College of Law, warns companies owed billions in tariff refunds risk shareholder lawsuits if they don't file despite political pressure from the president.

Patrick Penfield, professor of practice in the Whitman School, predicts only a modest price drop after an Iran ceasefire with significant reductions unlikely until the war ends.

Shelly Palmer, professor in the Newhouse School, says Elon Musk’s testimony in court oversimplifies how AI systems are trained and governed.

The University is launching a creator economy minor this fall through Newhouse and Whitman, a move Acting Chancellor J. Michael Haynie says reflects where the economy is going.