Monday June 8, 2026
Graduation Guide
Ducking Out
The class of 2026 turns the tassel.
NEWSROOM
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THE DAILY EMERALD
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A guide to UO’s 2026 commencement ceremonies
Across disciplines, UO graduates will all walk the stage June 15 — here’s where and when.
By Corey Hoffman Senior News Reporter
The University of Oregon’s 150th commencement ceremony and individual department ceremonies will take place throughout the day on June 15.
Main commencement
The University of Oregon’s main commencement will be held June 15 at 9 a.m. at Autzen Stadium. Deaf actress and advocate Marlee Matlin, known for her roles in “Children of a Lesser God” and “CODA,” will be the commencement speaker.
Administration and student speakers will give speeches during the ceremony. Students will not walk and receive diplomas during this ceremony, having the opportunity for individual recognition at respective department graduations.
College of Arts and Sciences
UO’s largest college will hold three separate ceremonies to recognize its various disciplines. The ceremony for the humanities and social sciences will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in Autzen Stadium and the ceremony for the natural sciences will be held from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. in Autzen Stadium. During the undergraduate ceremonies, graduates will walk the stage, have their
names read and receive their diploma covers.
The master’s and Ph.D. ceremony for all CAS majors will be held from 5:30 to 7 p.m. in Autzen Stadium and include a hooding ceremony for Ph.D. graduates.
Humanities represents majors that study culture and human experience and includes majors like languages, medieval studies and history. Natural sciences consists of sciences that study the biological and physical world, and includes studies from biochemistry, to computer science and psychology.
School of Journalism and Communication
The School of Journalism and Communication will hold its ceremony from 4 to 6 p.m. at Matthew Knight Arena. Undergraduate students from the four majors that make up the SOJC, in addition to master’s and Ph.D. students, will participate in this ceremony. Students will walk across the stage and receive their diploma covers. Ph.D. graduates will be hooded by advisors or other faculty members.
College of Design
The College of Design commencement ceremony will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. at Hayward Field. A commencement ceremony for the Portland campus will be held on June 16, from 12 to 2 p.m. at UO Portland Library.
Lundquist College of Business
The Lundquist College of Business will hold one undergraduate ceremony and two graduate program ceremonies. The undergraduate ceremony, for all business and accounting majors, will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. at Matthew Knight Arena. The ceremony for Masters of Business Administration and Masters of Science Management graduates will be from 4 to 5 p.m. in Beall Concert Hall and the ceremony for Ph.D., Master of Accounting and Master of Science in Finance graduates will be from 6 to 7 p.m. in Beall Concert Hall.
College of Education
The College of Education commencement ceremony will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. at Hayward Field.
School of Music and Dance
The School of Music and Dance commencement ceremony will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. in Beall Concert Hall. Tickets are required for audience members.
Knight Campus
The Knight Campus Department of Bioengineering and the Knight Campus Graduate Internship Program commencement ceremony will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. on
the Knight Campus Terrace. The ceremony will honor graduates in the Bioengineering Ph.D. program, the KCGIP Sensors and Polymers Master’s program, the KCGIP Semiconductor and Optics Master’s program and the KCGIP Bioinformatics Master’s program.
24 students graduate with UO Brewing Innovation Minor
Following the program’s introduction in 2024, one of the first cohorts of students graduate with the Brewing Innovation Minor.
By Katarina Ilic News Reporter
Daela Montgomery is one of the first students to graduate from the University of Oregon with a minor in Brewing Innovation. She also graduates with a major in biology, and a second minor in biochemistry.
The Brewing Innovation program was first introduced in fall 2024 as part of the Phil and Penny Knight Campus for Accelerating Scientific Impact. According to the Brewing Innovation website, the minor was designed as an “interdisciplinary minor to complement disciplinary majors in the sciences, humanities, communications, design and innovation.”
“Our goal is for students to leave the program with the capability to be innovators in their fields,” Brewing Innovation Instructor and Lab Manager Lindsey Rubottom said.
“By engaging students in an experiential learning environment, we give them the opportunity to develop real observational skills, to act on what they notice, to adapt when challenges arise and to tell compelling stories that connect with their audiences.”
Students who go through the program must take four four-credit courses on brewing, followed up with two designated elective credits.
“I work in a lab on campus and I thought that the hands-on part of the brewing minor sounded like an awesome application of stuff I've learned in my classes and a completely different lab environment than the ones I've previously been in,” Montgomery said.
Montgomery originally decided to participate in the Brewing Innovation program out of sheer curiosity. However, Montgomery found the program to couple well with her love of hands-on lab work as well as her love for biology.
“I really wanted to expand my skill set and get this unique experience. Science is the cornerstone of brewing, it's really important to apply my major in interesting ways,” Montgomery said.
According to Montgomery, the Brewing Innovation course was a highlight of her time at the university.
“I really liked it. It was my favorite series of classes that I've taken on campus. It is a small cohort of people and so I've made really good friends in the program and we got to work together really closely,” Montgomery said. “It was less of a lecture and talking at you and more of a collaborative space. Which isn't something I often get in my, like, 40-people science classes, my 200 people chemistry classes.”
The Brewing Innovation Minor isn’t just reserved for science majors, as any major can apply for the program.
“To be able to work with people of different majors, different backgrounds that I wouldn't normally be exposed to, really taught me more than I could have learned in just my science classes alone,” Montgomery said.
(LEFT) Students Kieran Galvin (left), Daela Montgomery (right) in the first cohort of the Brewing Innovation program adjust their mash temperature during a brewing session in the Brewing Innovation Lab in the Phil and Penny Knight Campus for Accelerating
Impact.
(Alex Hernandez/Emerald) Students celebrate at the University Commencement Ceremony on June 16, 2025.
ARTS & CULTURE
Post-grad pages: book recommendations for graduates
By Sadie Mordan Arts & Culture Writer
Goodbyes are fleeting. Book recommendations are forever.
A&C compiled a genre-diverse list of books, fitting for graduating from a season of life. With this lineup, we hope to provide graduates reassurance and worthwhile advice — the kind perhaps sought out, and the kind perhaps run from.
“Fun Home: A Family Tragicomic”
by Alison Bechdel
“I can imagine after graduation you might not wanna read a really heavy chapter novel. At least, that’s probably where I would be at,” multicultural reporter Gray Vanderpoel said. They recommend looking into Alison Bechdel’s graphic memoir, “Fun Home.”
“Having a graphic novel would be kind of fun. It’s entertaining; it’s engaging, and the art style’s really cool; and the story is still extremely impactful.”
No. 35 on The New York Times’ Best Books of the 21st Century list, “Fun Home: A Family Tragicomic” tells the story of a grieving Bechdel trying to understand her father through the shared, unspoken bond of their sexuality after her father dies from suicide.
The book follows a nonlinear structure, exploring themes of distance, reconnection and understanding between family members in a way that would leave a pertinent, lasting impact on students approaching graduation, Vanderpoel said — perhaps particularly for those moving back home.
“Tomorrow,
and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow”
by Gabrielle Zevin
Associate editor Bella Graham read Goodreads's 2022 Readers’ Favorite Fiction winner this past fall when she moved her sister into college, the experience prompting an epiphany as she fought back tears:
“One of my younger siblings is growing up. Then, also: I'm going into my junior year of college, and I'm low-key becoming an adult and more similar to these characters as adults than I was (to) these characters as children,” Graham said.
Nothing says nearing post-grad like the reluctant realization that adult characters are beginning to resonate with you.
But Graham considered notions of friendship, too, after reading “Tomorrow.” The near-incomprehensibly deep, platonic friendship between video game designers Sadie Green and Sam Masur portrays how hard it can be to choose love and loyalty when tragedy and distance complicate life — but how important it is that, given those very tribulations, you choose love and loyalty time and again.
“These two ideas of friendship can coexist where it's like, you have these relationships with people that you don't ever
Goodbye, good luck and good reads from the Arts & Culture desk.
want to change. And it's like, well, yeah, of course we're going to be best friends forever … but life's going to get in the way,” Graham said. “We're probably not going to live in the same city post-grad, but that doesn't mean that we can't give each other grace in navigating new jobs, and new cities and places. You know, we're allowed to make other friends, but that friendship is still allowed to hold space.”
“Nothing to See Here” by Kevin Wilson
This magical realism work begins with two best friends from boarding school, Lillian and Madison, reconnecting after years of minimal contact when Lillian answers Madison’s plea to take care of her twin stepchildren — twins that spontaneously combust when agitated.
“You can relate anything in your life to the twins that burst into flames,” music reporter Everette Cogswell said. A good metaphor for embracing trials disguised as blessings goes a long way.
“It talks about friendship loss and, you know, how when you're growing older you lose those close connections, but then they might find you again in unexpected ways,” Cogswell said, noting the book also touches on motherhood, sacrifice and parting from relationships no longer serving your best interest.
Jumping between present day and the friends’ time at boarding school, “Nothing to See Here” is laden with confrontations of hard truths, maturing, making sacrifices and finding purpose in unexpected ways: post-grad in a nutshell, it seems.
“Intermezzo” by Sally Rooney
Film reporter Amelia Fiore is anticipating feeling lost when she graduates on June 15, as the Koubek brothers of “Intermezzo” felt lost when their dad died.
It’s beautifully morbid, realizing a trend of finding comfort in books about coping with death and finding connection through grief, when coping with leaving UO.
Musthaves for graduation
A list of essentials for the big day.
By Claire Coit Arts & Culture Editor
Happy graduation season, Ducks! The fateful day is approaching, and students may be wondering: “What do I need to prep beforehand?” Fear not. The Arts & Culture desk is here to provide you with a list of small essentials that will make the special day as seamless as possible.
Clear bag for the ceremony
Autzen Stadium has a clear bag policy. Attendees are allowed one clear bag per person, no larger than 12 x 6 x 12 inches. Grad gowns don't have pockets, so be sure to get your clear bag before the big day.
Bobby pins/safety pins
(Noa Schwartz/Emerald)
“I think it's just a really important read for people, you know, feeling like they're in a weird kind of limbo state after the structure of school and then trying to figure out who you are, and your relationships and what your goals are,” Fiore said.
“It's kind of a story about how relationships and being close with people that you love is the most important thing, even if you don't have everything figured out.”
Fiore has embraced Rooney’s message, and with it, looming uncertainty. She knows she will be okay as long as she has her loved ones.
“Kitchen Confidential: Adventures in the Culinary Underbelly” by Anthony Bourdain
A culinary memoir may not seem an obvious choice for a post-grad read, but editor Claire Coit found reassurance in the pages of “Kitchen Confidential” while on her final college camping trip with friends over Memorial Day weekend.
First published in 2000, “Kitchen Confidential” chronicles world-renowned chef Anthony Bourdain’s culinary lifespan, emphasizing the grit and grime of highend restaurant kitchen culture.
“It's all about being really consistent. He kind of puts you in the position of: you don't really know where you're going or what you're going to do, but you know that you're going to figure it out; and you know that you're passionate about it. It’s about working every day to make that passion into a reality as a career,” Coit said.
Sometimes it takes a book to remember that the “figuring out” is the fun part.
“It’s a book that reassures you and says: you're gonna be okay,” Coit said. “You know what you love to do. Be confident in yourself and the skills that you have to be able to move into this next part of your life. That was a really valuable thing for me.”
This is an easy one to overlook. Make sure to pack extra bobby pins to keep your cap secure until you throw it in the air. Safety pins are great if you have a wardrobe malfunction, like a zipper going haywire in the middle of graduation day. You never know what's going to happen, and these two small items will ensure that you're as prepared as possible before you walk the stage.
Disposable camera
Phone camera photos are necessary, of course, but for students looking for more of a nostalgic way to remember graduation day, a disposable camera is a great option. You have a limited number of photos to take, so each shot can be extra special with a disposable. Develop the photos afterward, and you'll have a set of physical mementos commemorating the long-awaited day. Digital cameras work well for the vintage vibe, too.
Portable charger
Phones can also be finicky — you don't want to look down to see your phone is at 5%, right before you pull up your grad pass to walk the stage. Graduation ceremonies are infamously long-winded, too. A small portable charger is a great way to make sure you have everything you need for all the big moments.
Sunglasses
June in Eugene is quite sunny, and nothing's worse than missing the emotional impact of a speech because you can't see the person speaking on stage. Pack a pair of sunglasses just in case (bonus points if they're Duck/graduation themed).
Bottle opener
What's worse than picking up a pack of celebratory Coronas from the corner store, just to find you have no way to open them? A bottle opener can be a lifesaver for grad-related events when nobody else has one on hand. A little one attached to your keys will do — they sell them at Hirons and the Duck Store.
Confidence and gratitude
You've earned this, Ducks! From long hours at the library working on final projects to the dayto-day grind, you finally made it. Carry yourselves with pride for everything you've accomplished, and with gratitude for everything that has gotten you to this point. Happy graduation!
GRADUATION GIFT GUIDE
It’s that time of year again! The sun is out, the birds are chirping, and The Ducks, well, they’re graduating! If you’re still on the hunt for the perfect gift for your graduate or searching for a way to commemorate your time at the University of Oregon, look no further. The Duck Store has an array of graduation gifts perfect for your graduate.
Duck Mascot Graduation Plushie
Who doesn’t want to take The Duck with them after graduation? With this adorable plushie, you can bring the University of Oregon’s iconic mascot with you on all of your post-graduate adventures.
Duck Mascot Mug
Coffee, tea and hot chocolate taste better from this mascot-themed mug. The ceramic cup is dishwasher and microwave safe, and, with a wide-base and easy-to-carry handle, the Duck can be your morning coffee pal. Whether in your hand or displayed on your shelf, this mug is a beautiful way to incorporate Oregon pride into your everyday routine.
Fleece Oregon Hoodie
How does a Duck stay warm? Obviously in this cozy fleece hoodie. If comfort is your priority, look no further. With a kangaroo pocket, draw strings and pullover hood, this black Champion sweatshirt is great for chilly tailgates, gamedays and everything in between. The yellow, arched design is the perfect accent to represent your Oregon Ducks.
Josten’s Mahogany Diploma Frame
Your grad’s achievements deserve recognition. The diploma you earn is more than just a piece of paper; it reflects years of dedication. There’s no better way to show off your degree than this classic mahogany diploma frame.
Alumni Crewneck
If there’s one thing a Duck remembers from their time at the University of Oregon, it’s the sea of green and yellow that floods Autzen Stadium on gameday. Whether you make the journey back to Eugene or watch the game from your couch, this alumni crewneck definitely captures the gameday aesthetic.
Fighting Duck Alumni Keychain
For the on-the-go grad, this Duck alumni keychain is the perfect way to show off your school spirit anywhere. It’s colorful and durable, and, at only $18, it makes for a budget-friendly graduation gift. Once a Duck, always a Duck.
OPINION
Leo is the associate opinion editor for The Daily Emerald. He is a fourthyear student studying journalism and Spanish. Leo writes about a range of topics, but his favorites are fashion and social media.
By Leo Heffron Associate Opinion Editor
Heffron: Firstgen students shouldn't have to pay for their stole
Opinion: First-generation students often have to juggle financial struggle, a job and a rigorous class schedule. The stole that shows their hard work should be free.
This does not guarantee a student a stole, or even a cap and gown.
Ferguson: Graduating seniors offer the best advice for your academic journey
Opinion: If you're looking for advice, the best person to ask is a senior. They’ve gone through it all, and recently too.
By Zaida Ferguson Opinion Columnist
As we’re approaching the end of the academic year, it’s time to not only look back at our progress, but to gather insight and wisdom moving into next year, and who better to get guidance from than our role models — students who have done the internships, traveled abroad and involved themselves in extracurriculars to push themselves ahead.
Social life
“Talk to everyone, especially professors. You learn so many interesting things and gain opportunities just by talking to people. Get outside of the campus area, because Eugene has so many hidden gems and so many lovely people who are welcoming, and there's so much more than just campus to explore.”
You never know what jobs or opportunities you might get, so just apply — the most random sidegigs can open up a lot of opportunities, or at least lead to another. I did practicum (a psychology internship that provides opportunities to gain practical knowledge and real-life experience), which led to me getting another internship. I think trying out programs that aren’t well known is important, even though it’s scary.”
Ella Roach psychology major
For many, a University of Oregon education costs upwards of $150,000. On top of that, you have put hours and hours of hard work into earning the degree.
Once you've crossed the finish line, it seems fitting that you should have something to show for any prestigious awards you might have garnered during your education. For some awards and extracurriculars, you'll get that for free. However, if you are a first-generation student and want to show off your achievement, it'll cost you $38 at the Duck Store.
For students who may be putting themselves through school and juggling the already high costs of caps, gowns and senior photos, an extra cost for something they worked so hard to achieve seems insensitive.
Devlin Christiansen is a graduating journalism student at UO. He is a first-generation student, and had no idea about the first-generation student stole. When talking about the cost of the stole, Christiansen was surprised.
I think that's really high. It kind of just reflects that generations of families haven't been able to afford education like that,” Christiansen said. “This is supposed to be a celebration, so I think it's awfully ironic that they would be charging that much for something so significant to people.”
There are some ways to counteract this, such as the Grad-to-Grad Gown Share run by the Student Sustainability Center. However, the website clearly states that “Gowns are first-come, first-served. We also have a limited number of caps and other regalia available."
Applied voice major Gianna Alberico is also a first-generation student. She graduates next year, and said that she plans on purchasing a first-generation stole, but thinks the university should at least help cover the cost.
“For me, wearing that stole represents honor and privilege,” Alberico said. “My parents didn’t get to go to college for financial reasons, but I get to carry that honor.”
She also said she’ll consider using the Gradto-Grad Gown Share, but doesn't know if they’ll have the first-generation stole available.
For many first-generation students like Christiansen, working at least part-time is a necessity to afford schooling, food and other basic necessities. He worked throughout his whole time at UO, only taking two quarters off due to taking 18 credits.
Christiansen believes the university should do more than just acknowledge first-generation students. It should put its money where its mouth is.
“If the university wants to say that they really value first-generation students, throwing in an extra stole in the graduation package for kids doing something that never happened in their family, that would be a good way to show it," Christiansen said.
For a university that proudly celebrates its first-generation community, $38 shouldn't be the price of that recognition. If the UO genuinely wants to honor students who charted new territory for their families, it should make sure the symbol of that achievement, in this case, the stole, doesn't come with a barrier to entry.
Clara Petke-Long advertising major
“Say yes to everything — it will all work out. You can always go home, but if something sounds fun and you skip it, you’ll wish you went.”
Abi Conway marketing major
Academics
“Study abroad — it’s an incredible experience where you’ll visit amazing places and meet new people. The money will come back, so buy the ticket and take the trip.”
Abi Conway marketing major
“Ask as many questions as possible; this is the one time in your life where you're surrounded by so many wondering minds who are eager to help you learn.”
Clara Petke-Long advertising major
“Try new things and say yes to things you would never consider or think of. In the past few years I’ve done so many random things like studying abroad — it was my favorite thing I’ve done at UO.
“I suggest getting testing accommodations if you can. Taking tests with limited time, surrounded by people, can be stressful, so if you need support there are resources like the Accessible Education Center. There are so many resources at UO like advisors, networking opportunities and especially the library, so use them. There’s so much we won’t have access to in the real world.”
Zoe Gill-Errada planning, public policy and management major
School-life balance
“Call your mom, and listen to her advice; college can be stressful, but you always have support.”
Abi Conway marketing major
“There’s so much we won’t have access to in the real world. Let go of people making drama, live it up... and get close to at least one faculty member. Keep your Fridays free so you don’t go crazy — planning ahead to have a three day weekend is amazing. Let yourself have a hell week so you can have a great three day weekend.”
Zoe Gill-Errada planning, public policy and management major
(Noa Schwartz/Daily Emerald)
SPORTS
What’s next for graduating student athletes?
Oregon is sending stars to the pros.
By Max Koebel Senior Sports Writer
As the 2025-26 academic year comes to a close, many graduating seniors are getting ready to enter the professional world. Many athletes have already been drafted by a pro team, and some are still waiting. Here’s a look at five seniors.
Bryce Boettcher Baseball and Football
Born and raised in Eugene, Boettcher graduated from South Eugene High School and became a Duck on a baseball scholarship. After one season, he tried out for football as a walk-on, which eventually became his primary sport. After being drafted by the Houston Astros, Boettcher stayed at Oregon as a linebacker. In his final season, he recorded a career high 136 tackles, five pass deflections, a sack, two forced fumbles and an interception, which he returned 31 yards. Boettcher also saw one play of offense against USC, where he took a direct snap at
the one-yard-line and ran it in for a touchdown. He was selected in the fourth round of the NFL Draft by the Indianapolis Colts.
Nate Bittle
Men’s Basketball
A native to Central Point, Oregon, Bittle arrived in Eugene in 2021. Aside from the 2023-24 season, where he played just five games due to injury, the seven-footer’s minutes per game have increased each season. His strongest season was 2024-25, where he averaged 14.2 points, 7.6 rebounds and 2.1 blocks in 35 games while shooting 51.1% from the field and 33.6% from three. In his final season, he played just 25 games, but averaged 16.8 points, 6.9 rebounds and 1.8 blocks while shooting 46.5% on the floor and 31.9% from three. Bittle has declared for the NBA Draft and will most likely play for a G-League team next season.
Mia Jacobs
Women’s Basketball
Jacobs had three seasons of college experience before arriving in Oregon. A native of Perth, Australia, she began her collegiate career at La Salle University in 2022. After
one season there, Jacobs transferred west to Fresno State University, where she spent two seasons before capping off her college career in Eugene. In her one season as a Duck, Jacobs appeared in 34 games, all as a starter. She averaged 12.4 points, 5.2 rebounds and 1.2 steals in 26.8 minutes per game. Jacobs shot 41.1% from the floor, 35.6% from three and 82.8% from the free throw line. It is uncertain where Jacobs will go next, but she will bring a wide range of skills wherever the road takes her.
Drew Smith Baseball
As his collegiate career wraps up, the utility player from Clovis, California, known as “Mr. Clutch” to many of his teammates, has spent all four years in a Ducks uniform. Smith’s bat has been a key contributor to their success as he held a batting average of .332 following the conclusion of the Eugene Regional. In 220 at-bats, he has recorded 73 hits and 61 RBIs while scoring 46 runs, including 15 home runs. Smith was named to the Regional All-Tournament Team in 2024 and 2025. After winning the Eugene Regional, the Ducks aren’t done yet, and
Ranking Oregon sports’ top-5
moments of the last four years
The Ducks have won a national title, hosted postseason tournaments and won primetime matchups over the last graduating class’s tenure.
By Owen Murray Associate Sports Editor
5
Oregon baseball hosts 2023 Super Regional at PK Park
This one falls because of how that Super Regional against Oral Roberts University went, but under head coach Mark Wasikowski, the Ducks have soared on the diamond. They’re into a Super Regional against Texas this year, and the atmosphere at the 2026 Eugene Regional where they beat Oregon State was phenomenal, but it’s not a Super. Wasikowski’s team has been on the edge of elite for several seasons, and while it’s still searching for that elusive College World Series berth for the first time since restarting the program, a home Super Regional is the closest they’ve gotten.
4
Oregon men’s basketball wins 2023 Pac-12 Tournament as underdog
Oregon football may have stumbled as the favorite to win the Pac-12 title in 2023, but men’s basketball is the forever Pac-12 champion, and it’s because of a run the Ducks made as an underdog in Las Vegas. On back-to-back-to-back days, a team led by N’Faly Dante and a freshman Jackson Shelstad walked into Sin City and took down UCLA, No. 6 Arizona and Colorado to take the title and an auto-bid into the NCAA Tournament. Once they got there, they made a second-round run which only ended in a double overtime loss to Creigh-
ton where Jermaine Couisnard and Dante combined for 60 points, but a program which would struggle as it moved into the Big Ten made its mark on the Pac-12.
3
Dezianna Patmon walks off Liberty University at home Super Regional
Dez Patmon had a ridiculous week back in 2025. In the span of six days, the Oregon softball outfielder walked off Stanford with a home run in the Eugene Regional final, then came to bat in extra innings with the Ducks hosting a home Super Regional against Liberty University. After that Stanford win, Patmon knew she wasn’t done.
“I wasn’t hanging up the cleats today,” she said after that game. “I know that we talked about that as seniors. We were not done. This was not the end of Version 7’s journey.”
With Kedre Luschar on third base, Patmon drove a single up the middle and sent Oregon to the Women’s College World Series. Jane Sanders Stadium erupted.
2
Track and field wins NCAA National Championship
Since entering the Big Ten, Oregon track and field has been dominant. Its men’s and women’s teams have combined to win 14 of 18 available conference championships, including the first Triple Crown in the conference since 1997. The peak, though, was the Oregon women’s indoor national title in 2025.
That team had dominant stars, including Wilma Nielsen, Silan Ayyildiz, Jaida Ross,
Smith still has a chance to make the best impression of himself before entering the MLB Draft.
Elon Butler Softball
After growing up in San Jose, California, Butler spent three seasons at Cal before transferring to Oregon for her final year. In her one season in a Ducks uniform, Butler took 168 at-bats and recorded a batting average of .399. She recorded 67 hits and 59 RBIs while hitting 19 home runs. Butler had just one hit during the three games of the Eugene Regional, which was a solo home run in the final game against Saint Mary’s where Oregon was eliminated. Her strongest game came on April 4 against Iowa, where she had six hits including a triple and scored four runs. It is rare for NCAA softball players to go pro, but Butler beat those odds and is headed to the Chicago Bandits of the AUSL.
Aaliyah McCormick and Jadyn Mays, on its run to the Ducks’ first national title in any category since 2021. Under head coach Jerry Schumacher, the program has risen over the past four years to return to contention as a national power, and with one national ti tle under his belt, Oregon will host the NCAA Outdoor National Champi onships at Hayward Field from June 10-13.
1 Oregon football wins highest-ranked matchup in Autzen Stadium history
To say that No. 2 Ohio State at No. 3 Oregon was hyped up would be an understatement. It was the biggest game in Autzen Stadium history, an undefeated matchup, a first conference meet ing between two of the nation’s best programs in recent memory, a Heisman Trophy finalist duel and more. It lived up to all of that. It was a legitimately great game, with dueling offenses led by the Buckeyes’ star running back tandem and the Ducks’ insistence on throwing at Ohio State corner Denzel Burke over and over with glee. Dillon Gabriel scrambled for a 27-yard score with 13:20 left before Will Howard led a 13-play, 53-yard field goal drive to put the Buckeyes back in front.
Ducks kicker Atticus Sappington capped Oregon’s last drive with a goahead chip-shot field goal. Howard drove Ohio State near field goal range, but tried a fruitless scramble of his own as the clock ran out on the Buckeyes’ chances. From there, it’s roll-credits time as fans rushed the field and the Ducks cruised to a Big Ten title in their first year in the conference. The Buckeyes got the last word in the Rose Bowl, but Dan Lanning’s team made a statement that was the best of any over the last four years in Ducks sports: Oregon is here to stay.
