Hundreds of Graduates Cross the Stage at 2025 Commencement
On Monday, May 19, the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) community gathered at Wintrust Arena to celebrate the graduating classes of 2025. At the ceremony, hundreds of graduates crossed the stage to receive their degrees.
In her first Commencement ceremony since joining SAIC last summer, President Jiseon Lee Isbara spoke to the graduates. “After late nights spent researching, long hours in studios, and countless moments of self-reflection and growth, Commencement marks the culmination of everything you’ve poured into your education at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago,” said Lee Isbara. “Today is not only a celebration of your accomplishment but also an opportunity to reflect on your education and imagine your future.”
The Commencement address was delivered by world-renowned artist Amanda Williams, who received an honorary doctorate alongside Professors Emerit Joan Livingstone and Anne Wilson. "Practice your art like our lives depend on it, because they do. We need your joy and brilliance to permeate every corner of this globe," said Williams in her address. "No matter how long it takes, carve a life beyond the traditional boundaries of your discipline, of your imagination. Go down in history, because you already are anyway. Yours will be a defining generation for the ages."
The 2025 Commencement ceremony also included two special recognitions: longtime Campus Security Officer Diane White, a beloved community member who is retiring this year, was honored with a certificate of appreciation. And the first undergraduate degree was given to Joseph A. Burlini, who began his studies in the late 1950s but was unable to complete his degree, leaving the School when he was a few credits shy. He reached out to SAIC this year about finishing his coursework, and in recognition of his design career of over 60 years, the School bestowed his degree.
Commencement by the Numbers
Number of graduating students: 995
Number of undergraduate students: 713
Number of graduate students: 277
Number of honorary doctorate recipients: 3
Number of balloons dropped: 4,000
Number of supporters in attendance: 5,000
At 2025 Commencement, artist Amanda Williams will receive an honorary doctorate alongside two SAIC professors emerit, Joan Livingstone and Anne Wilson.
