Eckerd College’s Pet Graduation is the most adorable ceremony in America

Eckerd College Pet Graduation is set for May 6, where around 60 pets will receive recognition for their support of the graduating seniors.

Only in St. Pete would a chinchilla don a graduation cap and strut across a stage to the sound of cheers. Welcome to Eckerd College’s Pet Graduation — the most adorable academic ceremony you’ll ever attend.

On Tuesday, May 6, from 5:30 to 7 p.m., the college will host its 13th annual Pet Graduation inside Fox Hall, 4200 54th Ave. S. It’s one of the most heartwarming and delightfully quirky traditions in the Burg, where 60 pets — from floppy-eared bunnies to elegant cockatiels — will be recognized for their tireless support of graduating seniors.

Eckerd’s most adorable tradition

This isn’t just a novelty event. Eckerd College was the first in the U.S. to allow pets on campus, and that trailblazing spirit lives on in its pet-loving student body. During the 2024–25 school year alone, students registered a whopping 226 pets with the student-run Pet Life Council. About 14 percent of students living on campus share their space with a furry, scaly, or feathered friend. Since the first Pet Graduation in 2013, more than 456 pets have earned their moment in the spotlight.

This year’s graduating “class” includes:

• 23 dogs
• 26 cats
• 5 snakes
• 3 lizards
• 3 rabbits
• 2 cockatiels
• 1 ferret
• 1 chinchilla

All sorts of animals enjoy recognition during the ceremony

Yes, you read that right — five snakes are graduating. These pets aren’t just passive companions; they’re emotional support animals, late-night study buddies, and constant comforters through the highs and lows of college life.

Every pet gets the full ceremony treatment: a cap, a name-call, and a triumphant walk across the stage. Eckerd College President Jim Annarelli will present each pet with a certificate and pose for a celebratory photo with both pet and owner.

Graduating into a pet-friendly city

And it’s not just pets receiving accolades. The event also includes the beloved tradition of awarding an “honorary dog-torate” to one human who has gone above and beyond in supporting animal welfare or improving life for all creatures on campus. It’s the kind of quirky, heartfelt recognition that defines the Eckerd community.

Fun fact: I graduated from Eckerd the year the college held its first-ever Pet Graduation. And now I feel old. Is it too late for my pups to receive honorary degrees?

Congrats, grads! And welcome to pet-friendly St. Pete!