Guidelines for Harvard University’s 368th Commencement
Since 1642, when just nine students graduated, Harvard’s Commencement Exercises have brought together the community unlike any other tradition still observed in the University. Degree candidates with their family and friends, faculty, administrators who supported them, and alumni from around the world are anticipated to participate in Harvard’s 368th Commencement Exercises on May 30. To accommodate the increasing number of people planning to attend, carefully review the additional guidelines governing ticketing, regalia, security precautions, and other important details, which are available online. On Commencement morning, the Harvard gates will open at 6:45. A ticket is required to gain entry into Tercentenary Theatre, the site of the Morning Exercises. Commencement Day overview The Morning Exercises begin when the academic procession is seated in Tercentenary Theatre. Three student orators deliver addresses, and the dean of each School introduces the candidates for their respective degrees, which the president then confers. Toward the conclusion of the ceremony the...