Commencement | May 25, 2023

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

Three joyful graduates in caps and gowns celebrate together outdoors.

Commencement Week Events

Harvard Commencement Events 2026

Astronaut performing an experiment inside the International Space Station.

NASA Astronaut Jonny Kim to Speak at Harvard in June

The American Navy SEAL, born to immigrants, is a doctor and a space traveler.

Conan O’Brien in a dark suit and light shirt, smiling and posing with hands clasped.

Conan O’Brien Named Harvard’s 2026 Commencement Speaker

The comedian, host, and 1985 graduate will deliver remarks at the May 28 ceremony.

Most popular

Martin Nowak in a suit attentively listens during a conference, seated among an audience.

Martin Nowak Placed on Leave a Second Time

Further links to Jeffrey Epstein surface in newly released files.

White House and Harvard University buildings split diagonally with contrasting colors.

Harvard Weathers a Year of Turmoil

The federal government has launched unprecedented actions against the University. Here’s a guide.

Skyline view of Harvard University with trees in autumn colors and a river under a cloudy sky.

Harvard’s Class of 2029 Reflects Shifts in Racial Makeup After Affirmative Action Ends

International students continue to enroll amid political uncertainty; mandatory SATs lead to a drop in applications.

Explore More From Current Issue

Historical scene in colonial Boston depicting British soldiers confronting civilians, with smoke rising, in a city street.

Museums & Collections

Houghton Library Displays Revolution-era News and Propaganda

A new exhibit reveals how early Americans learned about the war.

Mercy Otis Warren in period attire writes at a desk by candlelight, surrounded by books.

Harvard Celebrates America’s 250th

The Woman Who Penned the Case for War

Mercy Otis Warren’s poetry and plays incited the Patriot movement.

Three joyful graduates in caps and gowns celebrate together outdoors.

Commencement Week Events

Harvard Commencement Events 2026