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Celebrating the Class of 2026
One-Hundred and Twenty-Sixth Annual Commencement Ceremony
The Board of Trustees, faculty, staff and students of Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences are pleased to celebrate with you this one hundred and twenty-sixth Commencement Ceremony. Our academic traditions date back to our founding in 1898 and to the awarding of degrees to the first class of eight in 1899. Our students carry on those distinguished traditions. Amid life’s uncertainties, challenges and changes, including a global pandemic, members of the Class of 2026 have fulfilled their commitment to pursuing careers of service to others.
DMU is incredibly proud of our graduates and grateful that they are joining the highly competent, compassionate health professionals our alumni represent.
Additional details will be provided as the ceremony date approaches.
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Friday, May 29, 2026
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10 a.m.
Doors Open at 8:30 a.m.
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Casey’s Center
233 Center Street
Des Moines, Iowa 50309 -
No Tickets Needed
Tickets are not needed for this event. Seating is first come, first served.
Ceremony Information
Commencement Ceremony
The doors to Casey’s Center will open at 8:30 a.m.
Students must be dressed in regalia and in designated seats in Expo Center by 9 a.m. Name cards will be on the chairs, organized alphabetically by program.
The processional will leave Expo Center at 9:45 a.m.
There is unlimited seating for guests and no tickets are required for the event. The event is approximately 2 ½ hours long.
Military Commissioning Ceremony
Select graduates will be honored and officially transitioned as commissioned officers in the U.S. Army, Navy and Air Force at 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 28. This event will be held on DMU’s campus at 8025 Grand Ave. in rooms E4117 and E4119.
Guest Information
Entrances
Please utilize the North and South doors to enter Casey’s Center.
Security Procedures
Guests should arrive early and travel light, as walk-through metal detectors will be used upon entry. Bags of all size are subject to search upon arrival at Casey’s Center.
All guests are subject to be searched upon entering the facility. Cell phones, keys and wallets (among other items) may need to be removed for additional screening if requested by security. These procedures are not a response to any specific threat, but rather recommendations made by Oak View Group and security partner, CSC, with consultation from local law enforcement officials and Polk County. Guests are encouraged to allow for extra time to enter Casey’s Center and to leave non-essential items at home.
Prohibited Items List*
See Venue FAQ and Policies for more information.
- Alcohol, drugs, illegal substances or any paraphernalia associated with drug use
- Animals (except trained service animals and service animals in training for guests with disabilities)
- Cans, bottles, coolers or other similar containers
- Electronic cigarettes/vape pens inside the facility
- Fireworks
- Flags/signs with poles
- Professional cameras, tripods, GoPros
- iPads/tablets
- Laptop computers
- Laser pens/pointers of any type
- Noisemakers such as air horns
- Outside food or beverages
- Pepper spray/Mace
- Weapons of any type including chains, knives, firearms and spiked jewelry (including permit to carry)
- Any other item deemed unacceptable by event/building management
Items that are normally prohibited but will be allowed for this event:
- Bags larger than 4.5”x6.5” — All bags, clear and exempted bags, are subject to search.
- Bags that are NOT clear — All bags, clear and exempted bags, are subject to search.
- Oversized bags, backpacks, duffel bags — All bags, clear and exempted bags, are subject to search.
- Audio/Video recorders
- Strollers
- Umbrellas
* If an item is revealed during a search, patrons may dispose of the item or they may return the item to their vehicle. Casey’s Center does not safeguard any personal belongings or items of any type.
Parking
Parking is available in the lot northwest of Casey’s Center with entrances off of 3rd Street and 5th Avenue. Street parking and city parking garages are also available within walking distance.
Cashless Facility
Casey’s Center is a cashless facility. All concessions will only accept debit, credit and gift cards.
Graduate Information
Welcome to the Alumni Association
As a DMU graduate, you are now a member of the university’s Alumni Association! As a member, you gain access to special perks and join a growing community of 16,000+ alumni around the world.
Watch for more information from DMU’s Alumni Office — your point of contact for future communications and questions.
Graduate Photos
DMU graduate photos are available online by entering a graduate’s last name and graduation year.
Contact the Customer Service Department at 800-261-2576 for assistance.
2025 Commencement Highlights
Experience highlights from last year’s Commencement cermony.