Commencement Weekend 2018
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.
Friday, May 25, 2018
Live Music Café
7:00pm – 10:00pm
Students Building’, ACDC
Sponsored by Campus Activities.
Enjoy a $10 all you can eat dinner special from 7–9pm. After 9pm, $5 desserts only. Live music by the Roundabout Ramblers from 7:30–9:30pm.
Saturday, May 26, 2018
Awarding of the Prizes
11:00am–noon
The Chapel
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
The Aula (Ely Hall)
Alumnae/i of Asian and Pacific descent will present identifying 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
Frances Lehman Loeb Art Center
AAAVC Kente Cloth Ceremony
2:00–3:00pm
Main Building, Villard room (second floor)
Black and African American alumnae/i will present identifying senior graduates with a kente cloth sash 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.
President’s Reception in Honor of the Class of 2018
2:00–4:00pm
Chapel Lawn
All friends, family and members of the Vassar community are invited.
Commencement Concert
3:00–3:45pm
Skinner Hall of Music
Presented by members of the Music Department faculty.
Baccalaureate Service
4:00pm–5:15pm
The Chapel
Sponsored by the ALANA Senior Council (formerly the Council of Black Seniors). Originally rooted in the tradition of the black church, the ceremony is now a broader celebration of faith and spirituality in recognition of academic achievement. Baccalaureate Address by Feminista Jones (aka Michelle Taylor). Open to the entire Vassar community of graduates and families.
Champagne Reception
9:00pm–midnight
Students’ Building
Sponsored by The Class of 2018. Bring your family and friends to enjoy champagne, light desserts, and dancing. Followed by a bonfire at Ballantine Field (near Walker Field House) at midnight.