Photographs from Commencement Week 2023

A gallery of Jim Harrison’s images from the unique Commencement celebration for the class of 2023

Photograph by Jim Harrison

On assignment for Harvard Magazine, Jim Harrison has captured the emotions, traditions, and historic moments at Harvard Commencements for decades. During this 372nd Commencement—a return to near-normalcy, after the pandemic years—the large cohort of 2023 graduates (augmented by those who deferred admission or took leaves during the prior period of social isolation and online instruction) celebrated with family and friends, even as the University prepared for a transition from President Larry Bacow to his successor-elect, Claudine Gay. We’re delighted once again to present some of Jim’s favorite images from the week. Access our complete and continuing coverage here.

~The Editors
 

 Phi Beta Kappa   |   Baccalaureate   |  ROTC   |   Class Day   |   Commencement 2023  | Alumni Day

Phi Beta Kappa, Tuesday May 23, 2023 

 
 

Baccalaureate, Tuesday May 23, 2023

 

ROTC Commissioning Ceremony  Wednesday, May 24, 2023 








 

Class Day, Wednesday, May 24, 2023







 

Commencement Day, Thursday, May 25, 2023








Alumni Day, June 2, 2023









Related topics

You might also like

Don’t Be A ‘Solo Superhero,’ Jonny Kim Tells Harvard Alumni

The astronaut, doctor, and Navy SEAL delivered keynote remarks on Alumni Day.

Harvard Honors Its Oldest Alumni

At 97 and 101, Linda Cabot Black ’51 and William “Bill” Dubey ’46 led the way on Alumni Day.

Ruth J. Simmons Receives the 2026 Radcliffe Medal

Michelle Obama, Drew Gilpin Faust, and others paid tribute to the pioneering educator during Harvard’s Radcliffe Day festivities. 

Most popular

The longtime administrator, who retired from the post in 2018, returns as the College reorganizes. 

As weight loss medications become more common, Daniel Lieberman discusses the importance of preserving muscle.

Author and Harvard Divinity School writer-in-residence Terry Tempest Williams finds beauty in the world around us.

Explore More From Current Issue

An open book with a film strip emerging, trailing popcorn and a dancer silhouette.

Readers Respond to Our Adaptations Survey

We asked people to share their favorite art adaptations. Here’s what they said.

Aerial view of modern high-rise buildings surrounded by greenery and city skyline.

In a sea of red brick, the Science Center and Peabody Terrace make their mark.

Black and white photo of Joseph Murray in a white lab coat sitting in an office.

Nobel Prize recipient Joseph E. Murray dedicated much of his career to organ transplant surgery.