Yale University is celebrating its Class of 2026 with a series of traditional ceremonies, including Class Day, the Baccalaureate, and the 325th Commencement. These events honor the graduating students' achievements and offer guidance for their futures.
During Class Day, acclaimed author Min Jin Lee '90 addressed the graduates, drawing on ancient Greek wisdom to advise them on navigating life's complexities. Lee urged students to adopt a nuanced view of time and remain alert for strategic opportunities, stating, "'Time is our teacher'." President Maurie McInnis spoke at the Baccalaureate ceremony, encouraging the Class of 2026 to cherish both the "glorious" and the forgettable memories of their time at Yale, emphasizing the evolving meaning of their experiences "'between memory and possibility'."
The university also recognized twelve seniors with Yale College's top student prizes for their excellence in scholarship, creativity, athletic performance, and commitment to community. The 325th Commencement ceremony is scheduled to be streamed live from Old Campus, beginning at 9:30 a.m. with the main ceremony at 10:30 a.m.