Each May, no matter what challenges were faced along the way, the Odyssey community comes together to watch all 30 Odyssey students triumphantly walk across the stage and receive their diploma.
Graduation is a celebration of what Odyssey students have accomplished – two semesters spent reading challenging works of literature, American history, art history, and philosophy, along with creating their own inspiring poetry and prose – earning six humanities credits from one of the top universities in the world. This year, we ask our community to show up stronger, louder, and prouder than ever. We invite you to revel with us in this moment of joy; we guarantee you will be inspired, moved, and rejuvenated.
Graduation marks a commitment by our community to continue to support students’ educational journeys, so please join Odyssey staff, alumni, and supporters in celebrating the Class of 2025 and sending them down the road towards their bright futures!
If you’re interested in supporting this year’s graduating class, please consider donating below!
Additional Information:
Who: YOU! This event is free and open to the public.
When: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 from 6-7:30 PM
Where: This is a hybrid event and will be both in-person (Great Hall in Memorial Union, 800 Langdon St.) and shown via Zoom (register below for link)
What: Hear Odyssey student voices along with inspiring remarks from Reverend Dr. Alex Gee, Odyssey’s Director, Emily Auerbach, and other Odyssey champions. Appetizers and refreshments will be provided following the ceremony.
**IMPORTANT NOTE: We are aware that parking remains a challenge while on campus and can be very limited near Memorial Union. Please leave extra time in order to find parking, or consider utilizing the bus system, Ubers/Lyft, or carpooling. The link below can be used to look up parking garages before heading to campus. Thanks!
“I passionately support the Odyssey program because I believe that everyone who dreams of a quality education deserves a clear pathway to achieve it. Programs like Odyssey made it possible for my mother, my sister, and me to reach the University of Wisconsin-Madison—a journey that transformed our lives and empowered our community for generations. My late mother, Verline Gee, was one of the early volunteers in this program, and her commitment to Odyssey’s mission continues to inspire me. I am deeply grateful for the life-changing work Odyssey does to unlock potential, uplift families, and strengthen our community’s future.” –Rev. Dr. Alex Gee
Thank you to our generous sponsors!
Special thanks to our graduation sponsors, including American Family Insurance, Custer Burish Financial Services,
Madison Gas & Electric, Strand Associates, Summit Credit Union, and UW Credit Union.
"Odyssey is a rainbow giving me hope for my future and brightening up my day. When I think about all I've been through and all I've overcome, being in Odyssey –I am walking down the yellow brick road towards my destiny."
Mariya, Class of 2025
