Commencement 2024 occurred on Sunday, May 26, on the Main Quadrangle with a formal academic procession. The ceremony included remarks by President Michael Elliott and Taha Zafar Ahmad ’24, the awarding of the Swift Moore Teaching Awards and Honorary Degrees, and performances by the Glee Club.
Play the full video, or jump to:
• Senior Speaker
• Honorary Degrees
• President’s Address
President Michael A. Elliott urged the class of 2024 to “learn together with passion, with openness and alive to possibility” and never lose hope or curiosity.
News Story
A mathematician and physicist, a novelist, an Asian American studies scholar, an environmental activist, a musician, and a civil rights advocate received honorary degrees. Watch/listen to recordings of their talks, and read the news story.
Established in 1934 to recognize exceptional service to the College, the Medal for Eminent Service was awarded this year to John E. Kirkpatrick ’51 for his extraordinary record of support, mentorship, and inspiration to the Amherst community.
The Phebe and Zephaniah Swift Moore Teaching Awards are presented to three outstanding secondary school teachers nominated by members of the graduating class.
At Commencement, every graduate receives a cane. Two hymns — “Three Gifts” and “Hymn to Amherst” — are sung. On stage fly flags representing the home countries of all members of the graduating class. These are just a few of our traditions.
Order online anytime, or visit in person during Commencement weekend! At both our online store and our new physical store in downtown Amherst, you’ll find a wide range of Amherst apparel and collectibles.
Please contact Conferences and Special Events at (413) 542-2845 or events@amherst.edu if you have questions about Commencement or senior activities.
Sunday, May 25, 2025
Sunday, May 24, 2026
Sunday, May 30, 2027
Find speeches, photos, and more in our Multimedia Archive.
