2026 Cap Contest
We want to see your creativity shine, Class of 2026! Decorate your cap as an expression of YOU – your passions, what got you through college, your major, your college, whatever means the most to you.
1st Prize
Join Wilbur and Wilma on stage to start the fireworks for the Commencement finale!
2nd Prize
Backstage tour of the setup the night before Commencement
3rd Prize
Graduation gift basket provided by the Student Union's GIFTED shop
Judges will select the top three cap designs based on design, construction, and school spirit.
Cap Contest Submissions Closed on Friday, May 1.
2026 Winners will be announced soon!
Contest Rules:
Be creative! All designs must be original and created by you, the student. Decorate your cap as an expression of YOU – your passions, what got you through college, your major, your college, etc.
Participants are responsible for providing their own decorating materials.
All decorated caps must comply with the student code of conduct and the rules of the University of Arizona. Remember, this is a family-friendly event!
When using the University of Arizona logo, please refer to brand.arizona.edu for guidelines.
Designs should not be higher than 3 inches off the top or wider than the cap as it will obstruct the view of other graduates at Commencement.
Contact us at commencement@arizona.edu with any questions.
This could be you...
2025 first-place winner on stage with Wilbur and Wilma to kickoff the finale fireworks.
2025 first-place winner on stage with Wilbur and Wilma to kickoff the finale fireworks.
2025 first-place winner on stage with Wilbur and Wilma to kickoff the finale fireworks.
2025 first-place winner on stage with Wilbur and Wilma to kickoff the finale fireworks.
2026 Cap Contest Winners
Camila Frield, BS in Nursing
Over 3,000 beads were hand-glued to make up an anatomical heart, an incredibly resilient organ that metaphorically and literally represents life, humanity, and empathy. Resilience is what got me through nursing school and it is what it takes to graduate college no matter what major so it felt right to represent this on my graduation cap as it is something we are all united by.
Salina Nelson, BA in Business Administration
Every stitch of this cap was made during hours of deep reflection. The crocheted granny square base is a technique that connects me to my heritage. It reminds me of watching my Nana crochet and the lessons my mom gave me when teaching me the craft. The Block A represents the academic goal I fought so hard to reach, and the rhinestones show that through all the work and starting over, I never lost my love for the sparkle in life. “For my 6 kids” is a promise to my children: “No matter the storm, keep reaching for your goals. If I can do it, you can do it.”
Cassandra Gonzalez, Master's in Accounting
This cap is a symbol of my Hispanic pride and my gratitude for the women who came before me. I learned to crochet from my Nana, and the yarn used for these flowers belonged to my Bisabuela before she passed away. I wouldn’t have been able to achieve this accomplishment without these women and so many others who came before me. I dedicate all of my success to them.
2025 Cap Contest Winners
Alan Dario Castanon Sandov, MA in Engineering
This 2mm bead design blends the sacred Wixárika 'Eye of God' with 'Wilbur the Wildcat' to honor my heritage from San Luis Potosí, Mexico. It symbolizes protection, family, and resilience, serving as a tribute to those who guided me on my journey as I graduate with my master’s degree.
Yvette Robles, MA in Applied Nutrition
Wilbur Wildcat sparkling with pride represents my journey as a first generation student earning my degree. RD2BE symbolizes my next step toward becoming a Registered Dietitian, a dream built on resilience, hard work, and breaking barriers for my family and community.
Kenzie Rice, BA in Arabic
I was lucky enough to have my Arabic studies take me abroad and this cap represents my path to graduation. I'm thankful for the opportunities afforded to me by the University of Arizona.
2024 Cap Contest Winners
Ibeth Martinez, MA in Architecture
A personalized Monopoly board game encapsulates my journey as an international U of A student studying architecture. The board layout features iconic university landmarks and frequented locations. The standout feature is a 3D-printed Old Main and surrounding buildings, meticulously detailed and scaled models.
Allison Cocina, BA in Retailing and Consumer Science
A labor of love! This cap took me over 50+ hours to create. Over 5,000 rhinestones were individually glued on with the process beginning back in March. Bear down forever!
Cash Harvey, BA in Criminal Justice Studies
A reflection of my cultural identity and personal narrative. As a Diné individual, every element of its design was meticulously chosen to resonate with my heritage and signify my perseverance. The pattern and intricately woven bead tells a story of resilience and dedication.