Webster University Tashkent Celebrates Historic Commencement

Webster University Tashkent proudly held its annual Commencement Ceremony on May 20-21, 2026, conferring degrees upon 1,600 graduates of bachelor's and master's degree programs. The two-day celebration reinforced the University’s growing stature as a premier American institution shaping the future of higher education across Central Asia.

This year’s graduating class represents 650 undergraduate and 950 graduate students drawn from 17 nationalities, a testament to Webster University Tashkent’s international academic reputation and its unwavering commitment to developing globally competent professionals.

The celebrations were held across two days at the prestigious Grand Hall of the Alisher Navoi Cinema (Panorama) in Tashkent. The venue welcomed hundreds of graduates, their families, faculty, staff and distinguished guests.

“This Commencement is a reflection of our students’ dedication and growth. Every graduate stepping forward today carries the knowledge, skills and ethical leadership to make a meaningful impact not only in Uzbekistan, but around the world,” said Jean Paul van Marissing, PhD, Rector of Webster University Tashkent.

In his address, van Marissing underscored the defining qualities that today’s world demands: adaptability, innovation and ethical leadership, values that Webster University Tashkent has embedded into every program it offers.

Honored guests addressed the graduates, celebrating their achievements and urging them to apply their knowledge and skills in service of progress and international collaboration. The University also extended its deep gratitude to the faculty, staff and families whose steadfast support has been instrumental throughout each graduate's academic journey.

“Your journey reflects the very spirit of today’s Uzbekistan: dynamic, ambitious and moving forward with confidence. As Webster graduates, you have the unique power to connect our rich national values with global standards, building a more prosperous and inclusive future for our motherland,” said Ryan Guffey, PhD, Executive Vice President for Webster International, highlighting the synergy between local heritage and global progress.

Representing the voice of the graduating class, student speakers shared how their time at the university transformed their worldview.

“Webster taught me to think critically, embrace diversity and remain open to the world around me. The supportive environment and global community shaped not only my academic growth, but my growth as a person. I am proud to graduate with a global perspective and ready to take bold steps toward new opportunities,” said Sevinch Samadullayeva, Bachelor of Economics, Class of 2026.

As Webster University Tashkent bids farewell to the Class of 2026, it does so with great confidence. These graduates now join a worldwide network of more than 200,000 Webster alumni, equipped with the knowledge, competencies and leadership capacity to succeed in an ever-changing global landscape.

About Webster University Tashkent: Established in 2019 through the Decree of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Webster University Tashkent is an official campus of Webster University in St. Louis, Missouri. As the premier American university in Central Asia, Webster Tashkent is committed to ensuring high-quality learning that transforms students for global citizenship and individual excellence.