Yale University celebrated its 325th Commencement on May 19, 2026, honoring over 4,500 new graduates from its various schools and conferring eight honorary degrees to distinguished individuals. The jubilant event saw graduates reflecting on their experiences and the significance of the day.
The ceremony recognized students from Yale College, the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, and all 13 professional schools. Among the graduates was Jamison Dorsey from the Yale School of Nursing, whose graduation marked a "full circle moment" after appearing on the Yale Nursing Matters magazine cover as a child.
Eight honorary doctorates were awarded to leaders whose work has benefited the common good across arts, science, political science, athletics, and religion. Additionally, the Yale School of Public Health debuted a new ceremonial mace, designed in collaboration with the Yale School of Architecture, incorporating symbolism of its history and mission.
The weekend also brought athletic triumphs for the Bulldogs. The Yale baseball team secured the Ivy League Tournament championship, earning an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament. The women's crew team won the overall team points title at the Ivy League Championship for the second consecutive year, with all six Yale boats earning medals.