Commencement

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

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

The astronaut, doctor, and Navy SEAL delivered keynote remarks at the University’s Alumni Day festivities.

by Schuyler Velasco

2026

Harvard Honors Its Oldest Alumni

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

by Laurel M. Shugart

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. 

by Schuyler Velasco , Lydialyle Gibson

Commencement Day with Conan O’Brien

The comedian headlined a star-studded cast for Harvard’s 375th Commencement exercises.

by Jonathan Shaw

Mychal Threets Brings ‘Library Joy’ to Harvard

The librarian and social media star gave the keynote address for Harvard Graduate School of Education’s convocation.

by Olivia Farrar

Affinity Celebrations Continue Outside of Harvard’s Gates

At unofficial ceremonies for minority groups and veterans, speakers comment on politics. 

by Laurel M. Shugart

Law School Class Day Carries On Without Michelle Wu

Striking graduate students picketed the event, which focused on student achievements and aspirations.

by Lydialyle Gibson

Harvard 2026 Commencement Photo Album

A gallery of photographs from the Commencement celebration for the class of 2026

Chan School Speakers Praise Public Health’s ‘Extraordinarily Ambitious’ Achievements

The field “has never waited for perfect times,” says former CDC director Rochelle Walensky.

by Lydialyle Gibson

Harvard Confers Five Honorary Degrees at the 2026 Commencement

O’Brien joins journalists, a scholar of AI, and a Broadway star.

by Jonathan Shaw , Schuyler Velasco

Harvard Names 2026 Centennial Medalists

Four alumni receive the Harvard Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences’ highest honor.

by Olivia Farrar