Graduates sitting in the grass listening to a speaker
1919. Graduates listen to Robert Proctor, Class of 1919, deliver “class prophecies” during class day exercises on June 23, 1919, in the Bema. 

Speeches, Traditions, and Facts

Dartmouth graduates singing at commencement 2022
Facts About Commencement

Did you know that Commencement has never been cancelled due to rain? Did you know that each student’s cap and gown is made from 23 recycled drinking water bottles?

Read about the first commencement
See historical commencement photos
Person carrying Native veterans flag at commencement
Academic Attire

Dartmouth faculty members, the Board of Trustees, and other functionaries of the College wear academic hoods of different colors to indicate their areas of study. Read more about these hoods and the history of the graduation gown.

About the Artifacts
What’s the Story With Those Walking Sticks?

For Students  
For Families & Guests
For Faculty & Staff
Frequently Asked Questions
Weekend Schedule
Events

Commencement Home

Lone Pine Background Pattern

Complete Commencement Ceremonies

We have archived each Commencement ceremony in full starting in 2009. 

See the Playlist
Jake Tapper '91
(Photo by Robert Gill)

... if you want it to happen, friendships formed here can last for the rest of your lives.

Jake Tapper ’91, journalist, author, and anchor of CNN’s weekday news program, The Lead with Jake Tapper, as well as the host of the network’s Sunday morning show, State of the Union
See the full speech
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It takes measuring tape, ladders, hammers, stakes, forklifts, trucks, people power and lots of chairs to set up for Commencement on the Green.

Commencement stage being installed
(Video by Christopher Johnson)