This story was originally published on May 17, 2026 on Penn Today.
For more than 150 years, Penn’s annual Ivy Day celebration has involved each graduating class unveiling their one-of-a-kind Ivy Stone in a meaningful location on campus. The joyful occasion includes the Ivy Day Ceremony, held on Saturday of Alumni Weekend each year, which recognizes outstanding fourth-year students for their leadership and service to the Penn community. Among the award categories are the Senior Honor Awards, featuring several prizes—such as the Bowl, the Spade, the Cane, and the Spoon—that reflect University tradition.
Award presenters and featured speakers during the 2026 Ivy Day Ceremony, held on May 16, included Class of 2026 president Vedika Jawa, President J. Larry Jameson, Provost John L. Jackson, Jr., Vice Provost for University Life Karu Kozuma, and Penn Alumni President Michael Barrett. Most of the Senior Honor Awards were presented by a Class of 2001 alum in honor of their 25th class anniversary, linking Penn graduates with a rich tapestry of tradition and community.
“The Ivy Day Award Ceremony is a meaningful tradition that highlights what is best about Penn—its students,” Kozuma says. “It honors graduating leaders for their contributions and lasting impact while also recognizing the families and loved ones who supported them along the way. By bringing together today’s honorees and alumni from generations past, the ceremony strengthens a sense of connection that endures well beyond graduation.”