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Maria Ressa named 2024 Commencement speaker

Maria Ressa, a journalist, media entrepreneur, and leading advocate for freedom of the press, will be the principal speaker at Harvard's 373rd Commencement Exercises on May 23, 2024.



Welcome

We look forward to celebrating the inimitable Harvard class of 2024 leading up to and on Thursday, May 23, 2024 for our 373rd Commencement Exercises.

For news coverage and videos of past commencement exercises, please see the links below.

If you have specific questions regarding information that is not covered in the individual graduate or professional school pages (found here), or for college seniors (found here) please contact the Commencement Office at commencement@harvard.edu. Thank you.

 

Commencement Office
Harvard University
 

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Ensuring a Safe, Respectful and Inclusive Commencement  

Each year, Harvard's dedicated faculty, staff, alumni, and students come together to plan a commencement ceremony that honors the achievements and bright futures of our outstanding graduates. Commencement is a time to reflect on the contributions of all within our Harvard community who support our students' success. Our top priority is to honor and celebrate our graduates in a way that is safe, respectful, and inclusive for all as degree candidates mark this major milestone in their lives. 

Commencement ceremonies have, over centuries of tradition, provided an opportunity for peaceful expression on important issues. We support respectful dialogue while prioritizing safety. Security will be present to facilitate an atmosphere where graduates and guests can fully participate in the ceremony. 

Specific security measures include: 

  • Screening all guests at entry gates for prohibited items 
  • Requiring tickets for entry into Harvard Yard 
  • Restricting backpacks, large bags, and other items that could pose safety risks 
  • Prohibiting signs or banners that block views or disrupt the ceremony 

Most of all, we hope this celebration honors the hard work of our newest alumni. 

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COMMENCEMENT WEEK AT HARVARD UNIVERSITY

The University is excited to host a series of commencement and alumni events to celebrate the accomplishments of our graduates and our alumni community. In light of recent events, Harvard Yard will remain closed to all but HUID card holders until further notice. Designated guests attending events must have tickets to enter the Yard. Guests and students are advised to plan a few extra minutes to enter the Yard prior to events. For more information about access to the Yard for graduates and their guests, visit this page.