Commencement Weekend 2019
Traditional activities are organized by the senior class beginning Friday evening and will continue throughout the day on Saturday. These gatherings and events are open to the entire community of graduates and families, and attendance is voluntary.
Thursday, May 23, 2019
Sigma Xi Induction Ceremony
3:30–5:00pm
Main Building, Villard
Friday, May 24, 2019
Transitions Program Reception
3:00–5:00pm
Main Building, Villard
Phi Beta Kappa Reception
5:30–7:00pm
Students’ Building
By invitation only.
Saturday, May 25, 2019
Awarding of the Prizes
10:30am–Noon
The Chapel
Presented by the Dean of the College and the Dean of Studies. The senior prize recipients will be awarded scholastic prizes and awards. Recipients will be notified in advance.
Asian and Pacific Islander (API) Graduation Ceremony
1:00–2:00pm
Students’ Building
Alumnae/i of Asian and Pacific descent will present senior graduates with a red satin stole to wear with their caps and gowns during Commencement. This ceremony marks the seniors’ transition to the world outside Vassar and welcomes them to the alumnae/i community.
Performances by Vassar College A Capella groups
1:00–4:00pm
Lehman Loeb Art Center
AAAVC Kente Cloth Ceremony
1:45–3:00pm
Main Building, Villard
Members of the African American alumnae/i of Vassar College (AAAVC) will celebrate with Black seniors and their families at the 30th Annual Kente Cloth ceremony. Alumnae/I will officially welcome the seniors to the alumnae/I community as they bestow kente cloths to be worn with caps and gowns at Commencement.
President’s Reception in Honor of the Class of 2019
3:00–4:00pm
Chapel Lawn
All friends, family, and members of the Vassar community are invited.
Commencement Concert
3:00–3:45pm
Skinner Hall of Music
An annual tribute to the graduating seniors presented by members of the Music Department Faculty.
Baccalaureate Service
4:00–6:00pm
The Chapel
A celebration, rooted in the traditions of the African diaspora, of faith and spirituality in recognition of academic development. Sponsored and planned by the Council of ALANA Seniors student association, open to the entire community of graduates and families.
Posse Veteran Reception
6:00pm
Alumnae House
Invitation Only
Champagne Reception
7:00–10:00pm
The Bridge for Laboratory Sciences
Sponsored by The Class of 2019. Bring your family and friends to enjoy champagne, light desserts, and dancing!
Bonfire
10:00pm
Ballentine Field
Graduates only.