Commencement

Erik Weihenmayer, the first blind person to summit Mount Everest, urged graduates in his Commencement address to reach into the unknown and be the "alchemists" to drive global change.

Seven years ago, Rivas was lying in a hospital bed recovering from emergency surgery. After being forced to put her studies on hold, she is now set to earn a degree in animal sciences from the U of A.

Always dedicated to serving others, it was tough for Den Baseda to focus on himself long enough to earn a master's degree in biomedical engineering. After he graduates, Baseda will return to his mission of volunteerism.

For a newly single mother supporting two teenage daughters, going back to school wasn't easy, but 46-year-old Gupta will graduate next week with a master's degree in business analytics.

The seven undergraduates, representing a range of majors, will receive the U of A's top awards for their academic achievement as well as their integrity and leadership beyond the classroom.

Weihenmayer is the only blind climber to ascend the Seven Summits – the highest peaks on each continent. Commencement will take place May 16 at 7:30 p.m. at Arizona Stadium.

More than 100 U of A students will graduate with Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degrees next week, prepared to work as "day-one-ready veterinarians."

Actor and University of Arizona alumnus Craig T. Nelson delivered the university's Commencement address and was awarded an honorary Doctor of Fine Arts. He told graduates he is "deeply moved" by what they accomplished amid the challenges their class faced over the past four years.

The university's 160th Commencement on May 10 is expected to draw about 30,000 guests to Arizona Stadium. Actor Craig T. Nelson will deliver the Commencement address.

The university's top awards for graduating seniors recognize recipients' outstanding moral character, commitment to academics and service to their communities.