Sunday, May 26, 2024

Commencement 2024 will occur on Sunday, May 26, on the Main Quadrangle with a formal academic procession. The ceremony includes remarks by President Elliott and a speaker from the class of 2024. Additionally, there will be a presentation of the Swift Moore Teaching Awards and Honorary Degrees; performances by the Glee Club; and the awarding of degrees.


the six honorees, named in article

2024 Honorary Degrees

A mathematician and physicist, a novelist, an Asian American studies scholar, an environmental activist, a musician, and a civil rights advocate will receive honorary degrees from Amherst College.

graduation caps and a list titled, Important

Information for Graduating Students

Learn more about important dates and deadlines, distribution of regalia (cap and gown), and other details that will help you prepare for Commencement. 

a crowd of graduates throws their caps into the air

Commencement Weekend Schedule

Join us in celebrating the Class of 2024. Commencement weekend offers a variety of programs for families and graduates, including luncheons, lectures from honored guests, Baccalaureate, receptions, and the Commencement ceremony.

icons for map, phone, email, information

General Information

Find parking information, campus maps, important phone numbers, and more.

Commencement canes

Commencement Traditions

At Commencement, every graduate receives a cane. Two hymns — “Three Gifts” and “Hymn to Amherst” — are sung. On stage fly flags representing the home countries of all members of the graduating class. These are just a few of our traditions.

Amherst College storefront in downtown Amherst Massachusetts, with a mammoth in the window

Amherst College Store: In Person and Online

Order online anytime, or visit in person during Commencement weekend! At both our online store and our new physical store in downtown Amherst, you’ll find a wide range of Amherst apparel and collectibles.

Contact Us

Please contact Conferences and Special Events at (413) 542-2845 or events@amherst.edu if you have questions about Commencement or senior activities. 

Future Commencements

Sunday, May 26, 2024
Sunday, May 25, 2025
Sunday, May 24, 2026
Sunday, May 30, 2027

Past Commencements

Find speeches, photos, and more in our Multimedia Archive.