May 19, 2019
The culmination of one's undergraduate experience.
The Commencement exercises at Dickinson represent the culmination of one’s undergraduate experience and the successful completion of the requirements for graduation. The faculty and Board of Trustees of the college approve the conferral of degrees prior to the ceremony. The first Dickinson College Commencement exercises were held in the Presbyterian church on the town square, and the occasion was something of a public holiday. Professors and students marched in procession, first from the college buildings in Liberty Alley and then from our present campus. Each graduate gave proof of his learning by delivering an address in Latin or English, a practice that continued through most of the 19th century. The gowns worn by participants hearken back to the monastic robes of the Middle Ages. The hood—originally worn by clergy and students for warmth in drafty halls—was retained in special cases, such as academic distinction.
For more information, visit https://www.dickinson.edu/commencement.
Further information
- Location: John Dickinson Campus
- Time: 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
- Cost: Free