Commencement

Coverage of Harvard’s annual graduation ceremonies, including speeches, profiles, and traditions.

Harvard Commencement 2025

Harvard passes a test of its values, yet challenges loom.

by Jonathan Shaw

Marty Baron Harvard Commencement Speaker

During an era of shrinking newspapers and political attacks on journalism, The Washington Post’s editor will be honored.

by John S. Rosenberg

Harvard Commencement exercises 2020

Guidelines for this year’s May gala

Harvard president enables more research into University's slavery ties

The president announces a $5-million initiative.

by John S. Rosenberg

"I Can't See My Family"

DACA recipient Daishi Miguel Tanaka '19 graduated last month without his parents in attendance.

by Nina Pasquini

The Senior Alumni

Evelyn Richmond ’41 and Arsen Charles ’42 led the 2019 alumni parade.

Harvard 368th Commencement Powerful Women

At the 368th Commencement, sober talk about the times—and life lessons from a cohort of powerful women

by John S. Rosenberg

Honorary degree recipients 2019

The honorands of 2019

Harvard Commencement talk by Lawrence Bacow, Teju Cole, Angela Merkel

Commencement remarks on character and conduct by President Lawrence S. Bacow, Chancellor Angela Merkel, Teju Cole, and more

Harvard President Bacow lighter Commencement talk

President Bacow’s lighter, and personal, side during Commencement week