2021 Virtual Commencement

Congratulations, Class of 2021!

Participate in Events and Traditions


A number of traditions and events will be held for all graduates, both residential and remote. Senior Week will happen May 12–15. For residential students, the majority of these events will have an in-person, on-campus component. Residential students eligible for graduation are welcome to stay on campus during that time. Details, including dates and times, will be listed here as they become available.

International Senior Ceremony

Thu, Apr 30, 2026 4:30pm to 6pm

The Mount Holyoke College International Senior Ceremony is a recognition ceremony honoring International graduating seniors. During the celebration, we will honor graduating International seniors...

Blanchard Hall, Great Room

Fearless First Cording Ceremony

Sat, May 2, 2026 3pm to 5pm

The Mount Holyoke College Fearless First Cording Ceremony is a recognition ceremony honoring college students who self-identify as first-generation and/or low-income graduating seniors. Sponsored...

Community Center, Great Room

free

Lavender Ceremony

Sun, May 3, 2026 2pm to 4pm

The Lavender Ceremony at Mount Holyoke is a recognition ceremony honoring our LGBTQIA+ Graduates sponsored by SGA Lavender Committee, the Jeannette Marks House, and Office of Community and...

Art Building, Gamble Auditorium

Stoling Ceremony Rehearsal

Thu, May 21, 2026 9am

In this celebration of mentorship that started in 2005, students of color honor mentors who have helped them succeed. The ceremony is both a celebration and a moment for reflection. Rehearsal for...

Mary Woolley Hall, Chapin Auditorium

Berries & Bubbly

Thu, May 21, 2026 3:30pm to 5pm

The Alum Association, the Office of Development and the President's Office cordially invite you to Berries & Bubbly, where we will toast your accomplishments and welcome you into the worldwide alum...

Blanchard Hall, Community Center

Jumma Lunch for Seniors

Fri, May 22, 2026 12:30pm to 1:30pm

A special Halal lunch and a social space for Muslim seniors and their guests. The Muslim Prayer Room is located on the ground floor and is available for performing prayers. Alums are...

Eliot House, Multipurpose space

State of the College Address with President Danielle R. Holley

Fri, May 22, 2026 2:30pm to 3:30pm

Join President Danielle R. Holley for an engaging update on the College and progress made on the MHC Forward Strategic Plan.

Art Building, Gamble Auditorium

Blessing and Sending

Fri, May 22, 2026 3:30pm to 4:30pm

This ceremony, which includes an exchange of flowers, is spiritual more than religious. Seniors, accompanied by family and friends, are given a blessing and a send-off as they commence their new...

Mary Lyon Garden / Abbey Memorial Chapel

Commencement Shabbat

Fri, May 22, 2026 5pm to 6pm

On Shabbat for graduating seniors, family and friends, and alums who will be attending Reunion 1. Event access: Location, paths of travel to the location: Cassani Lounge (in Shattuck Hall). Enter...

Shattuck Hall, Cassani Lounge

Stoling Ceremony

Fri, May 22, 2026 6pm

In this celebration of mentorship that started in 2005, students of color honor mentors who have helped them succeed. The ceremony is both a celebration and a moment for reflection. It is an...

Mary Woolley Hall, Chapin Auditorium

Senior Class Parade Lineup

Sat, May 23, 2026 8am to 8:45am

Please meet on the 116 side of Mary Woolley Hall to lineup for the parade. Lineup will take place on the paved path alongside the building. Event access Location, paths of travel to the location,...

Mary Woolley Hall, 116 Green

Laurel Parade and Laurel Chain Ceremony

Sat, May 23, 2026 9am to 10am

Join us for this beloved annual tradition! Kicking off at 9 am, Loyalty class members will lead all returning alums and seniors to Mary Lyon's grave for the Laurel Chain Ceremony where seniors...

Woolley Circle to Mary Lyon’s Grave

Community Lunch Under the Tent

Sat, May 23, 2026 11:30am to 1pm

Adult $22.00 Child (under 12) $13.00 Tickets may be purchased with cash, credit card or check only. Please note no refunds will be issued, so please double-check your arrangements before...

Skinner Hall, Skinner Green Tent

Adult: $22, Child (under 12): $13

Catholic Baccalaureate Mass

Sat, May 23, 2026 3pm to 4pm

The Baccalaureate Mass is a time where seniors give thanks and reflect on their academic experience at Mount Holyoke College. It is an important spiritual component of the annual commencement...

Abbey Memorial Chapel

Dinner under the Stars

Sat, May 23, 2026 6:30pm to 8pm

Adult $52, Child (under 12) $20 Beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages included Tickets may be purchased with cash, credit card or check only. Please note no refunds will be issued, so please...

Skinner Hall, Skinner Green

Adult: $52, Child (under 12): $20

Commencement Seating

Sun, May 24, 2026 9am

Seating begins for ticket holders for Pageant Green. Non-ticketed seating is available in the amphitheater. If the event moves indoors, attendees must have ticket to enter the Kendall field house.

Pageant Green, or Kendall Field House (inclement weather)

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