Harvard University’s 372nd Commencement Exercises
Thursday, May 25, 2023
Since 1642, when just nine students graduated, Harvard’s Commencement Exercises have brought together the community unlike any other tradition still observed in the University. Degree candidates, with those who supported them, are anticipated to participate in Harvard’s 372nd commencement exercises this spring. Given the increasing number of people planning to attend, we ask that interested readers carefully review the guidelines governing ticketing, regalia, security precautions, health and safety, and other details at https://commencement.harvard.edu/.
Commencement Day Overview
The Commencement Exercises begin when the academic procession is seated in Tercentenary Theatre and the sheriff calls the “meeting to order.” Three student orators deliver addresses, and the dean of each School introduces the candidates by groups for their respective degrees, which the president then confers. Toward the conclusion of the ceremony, the graduating seniors are asked to rise, and their degrees are conferred on them as a group by the president. Honorary degrees are then conferred before the Commencement speaker delivers an address. The exercises are then adjourned.
Diploma-granting Ceremonies and Luncheons: Graduates and their guests return to their respective undergraduate Houses or graduate and professional Schools.
Please note: University health and safety guidance and policies may change based on current conditions and federal, state, and local requirements.
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Harvard Alumni Day
Friday, June 2, 2023
The Harvard Alumni Association (HAA) invites the University community to Harvard Alumni Day. This global celebration will honor alumni impact, citizenship, and community. It begins with the alumni parade led by the Chief Marshal and the eldest alumni in attendance. Together with their schools and classes, alumni will process into Tercentenary Theatre for the HAA’s annual meeting program, which will feature an alumni keynote speaker, a report from Harvard President Lawrence S. Bacow, recognition of the Harvard Medalists, and more. A luncheon and other programming follow. Alumni not in attendance are invited to join via live stream or through local watch parties.
—Harvard Commencement Office and Harvard Alumni Association
