Commencement Events Schedule

3:30 pm, HDS Campus Green

Family and friends are welcome to this special service for HDS graduating students. Tickets are not required. Seating is first come, first served. The Multireligious Commencement Service features is developed by members of the graduating class featuring readings, prayers, music, poetry, and more representing the religious and spiritual traditions of the class of 2026.

5 pm on the Swartz Hall stairs
Following the Multireligious Commencement Service for the Class of 2026, a class photograph will be taken on the steps of the Swartz Hall. Information on how to purchase a copy of this photo will be sent to you by GradImages. You may also contact them at 800.424.3686.

5-6:30 pm on the Swartz Lawn
Following the class photo, refreshments will be served from 5 to 6:30pm under the tent on the Swartz Lawn located on Francis Ave directly in front of Swartz Hall for graduating students and their families and for HDS faculty and staff. All are welcome to attend; tickets are not required.

9:45 am, Tercentenary Theatre, tickets required
(Gates open at 6:45 am for families and guests)

After the meeting is called to order, the student orators deliver speeches. The Provost and Deans introduce the candidates and the president will confer the degrees. The Commencement Speaker will deliver the Commencement Address. The meeting is adjourned following the benediction. The University Band and University Choir perform throughout the Exercises.

Guests will need a ticket to enter the yard for the morning exercises at 9:45 am. Graduates receive two tickets for the morning exercises. The morning ceremony will also be available via webcast in the Cader Room. We strongly encourage families and guests to view the morning exercises in the Cader Room due to its comfort, space, and proximity to the Diploma Awarding Ceremony. Following the morning exercises those attending the HDS ceremony should proceed to the HDS Campus Green.

More information on the main Harvard Commencement site.

2–3:30 pm, Swartz Lawn
The Commencement Luncheon is held from 2 to 3:30pm on Swartz Lawn, located on Francis Ave directly in front of Swartz Hall. 

Should you prefer to have lunch at a restaurant in Harvard Square or Cambridge, please make your reservations as early as possible! Read more about restaurants in Harvard Square.