Commencement Returns

The masks came off. They were required, but graduating seniors happily removed their face coverings during Commencement in a fitting gesture to end an academic year like no other. Social distancing protocols were in place—no handshaking when diplomas were handed out at Memorial Field on June 12—and about 2,000 guests viewed the four-hour proceedings.

“Your class has faced a cauldron of tumult and tragedy unlike any other,” said President Phil Hanlon ’77 in his address. Added Commencement speaker Annette Gordon-Reed ’81: “But you have made it to this moment. A world that badly needs your spirit and enthusiasm is waiting for you.”

Amanda Chen ’21 deliveredthe valedictory address. “This is a really hard speech for me to write because no words can capture the loss that we experienced this past year,” she said. “I’m sorry that I don’t have the language to convey everything we’re feeling today....I was able to make it through because of the people by my side. I am thankful in knowing that my peers are talented, smart, and passionate. If we want change to happen in whatever field, now is the time to do it.”

The hot, sunny day saw many seniors ducking into Leverone Field House for a dose of air conditioning. Most were happily surprised the event took place at all. “This is definitely surreal,” said Prathna Kumar ’21. “It’s the first time that I’m seeing some of these people all year.”

The College awarded 1,169 degrees of bachelor of arts. Graduates of the professional schools were also awarded degrees at the ceremony. Three seniors received military commissions as second lieutenants, two in the Army and one in the Marines, at a Spaulding Auditorium ceremony the day before Commencement.

In The Dartmouth a variety of professors offered six words of advice to the new grads, ranging from Mary Desjardins’ “Don’t be afraid to change direction” to Erich Osterberg’s “Let batter rest for delicious pancakes.”