Dear Faculty and Staff Colleagues,

I’m writing to express my heartfelt gratitude for the planning and orchestration of an exceptional Commencement weekend. The entire weekend was filled with wonderful events — from Last Collection and Baccalaureate to departmental celebrations, the Swattie sendoff in the Ville, and the fireworks. And then, of course, there is the Ceremony itself. The Mann Center for the Performing Arts once again provided a wonderful setting for the occasion on what was a picture-perfect day. Thousands of family members and friends gathered to celebrate the Class of 2025, and many more watched the ceremony online, tuning in from 21 countries across four continents.

A number of parents and family members have already expressed to me their gratitude and appreciation for a joyful, memorable weekend. That is a testament to the thoughtful planning and care you collectively dedicated to our graduating seniors and their loved ones.

I extend my thanks to all of the faculty and staff members who volunteered their time and energy to make the weekend such a great success. A special thanks to those of you who serve on our Commencement Committee, and our colleagues from the Scott Arboretum; the Campus & Community Store; Communications; Dining Services; Environmental Services; Events Management; Facilities; Grounds; the Lang Performing Arts Center; the President’s Office; Print Services; the Provost’s Office; Public Safety; and the Division of Student Affairs, notably the Office of Student Engagement and the Registrar’s Office.

Videos, photographs, speeches, and other facets of the ceremony can be found on the College’s social media channels and on our Commencement site.

Commencement was not without some disruption. I’ve heard varying views on the interruptions that occurred during the ceremony. Ultimately, I believe they reflect the College’s ongoing commitment to upholding the values of peaceful protest and free expression. At the same time, they remind us of the importance of continuing to listen to one another, to engage across differences, and to seek out ways to move forward with mutual respect and understanding.

I hope the end of the academic year brings with it some time for rest and rejuvenation. Thank you again for all that you do for our students and each other.

Sincerely,

Val Smith
President