June 8–13, 2026
50th Anniversary Celebration Week
Coming together to reflect on and celebrate the people behind
fifty years of impact.
Each year, Palo Alto University closes the academic year by coming together as a community, marking milestones, celebrating one another, and culminating in Commencement as we honor our graduates and all that supports their journey.
This year, that tradition carries added significance. As PAU celebrates its 50th Anniversary, Celebration Week (June 8–13, 2026) will expand to include additional opportunities to come together and recognize the people whose teaching, mentorship, research, and service have shaped the past five decades.
Explore the Celebration Week schedule below.
Palo Alto
University
RESEARCH
PAU Masterclass
Monday, June 8 l 5:00 PM PDT
Kick off Celebration Week with an engaging learning experience featuring insights from PAU alumni and experts shaping the future of mental and behavioral health.
PAU Community Luncheon
Tuesday, June 9 l 11:30 PM PDT
Join students, alumni, faculty, staff, and community partners for a special gathering to celebrate 50 years of PAU and the community that makes it possible.
PAU Night at the Ballpark
Tuesday, June 9 l 6:45 PM PDT
Celebrate PAU’s 50th Anniversary with an evening at the ballpark alongside students, alumni, faculty, and staff at Oracle Park.
PAU Community Service Day
Wednesday, June 10
Join students, alumni, faculty, staff, and community volunteers as we give back together and put PAU’s values into action.
PAU Stars Celebration
Wednesday, June 10 l 5:00 PM PDT
Join the PAU community in celebrating student excellence at the PAU Stars Award Celebration—an evening honoring outstanding achievements in service, research, clinical work, leadership, and community impact.
Investiture of President Farouk Dey
Thursday, June 11 l 2:00 PM PDT
The formal academic ceremony inducting Dr. Farouk Dey as PAU's fourth president. An academic tradition in which the university community — faculty, trustees, students, and guests — formally confer the office and symbols of the presidency.
50th Anniversary Gala
Thursday, June 11 l 4:30 PM PDT
Whether you helped build PAU, believe in what it stands for, or want to be part of where it's headed, this evening was made for you.
PAU Employee Awards Celebration
Friday, June 12 l 5:30 PM PDT
Join us as we recognize the faculty and staff whose dedication, care, and commitment strengthen the PAU community every day.
PAU 2026 Commencement Ceremony
Saturday, June 13 l 10:30 AM PDT
Honoring Our Graduates. Celebrating the Future.
Join us as we celebrate the achievements of our graduates
and mark the culmination of their academic journey at
Palo Alto University.