Sunday, May 28, 2023

The Commencement ceremony took place on Sunday, May 28, on the Main Quadrangle with a formal academic procession. The ceremony included remarks by President Elliott and the senior class speaker, Quentin Liren Jeyaretnam ’23; the presentation of the Swift Moore Teaching Awards and Honorary Degrees; performances by the Glee Club; and the awarding of degrees. 

Amherst College’s 202nd Commencement:

President Elliott in regalia speaking at podium

President’s Address

“Advancing a free and just society lies with us all,” said President Michael Elliott in his speech at Commencement 2023. 

Quentin Jeyaretnam

“Wherever you go from here on out, you are home.”

Jeyaretnam, a military veteran from Singapore who began his Amherst career at age 22, delivered the senior speech at Commencement 2023.

‘No Place, No Person is Too Small to Have a Larger Meaning to the World’

Three student marshals leading the class of 2023.

May 28, 2023

At Amherst’s 202nd Commencement on May 28, President Michael A. Elliott urged this year’s graduates and their families and friends to work together to protect rights and freedoms everywhere, and to advance a free and just society.

News Story
Honorary degree recipients from Amherst College 2023

2023 Honorary Degrees

Seven influential leaders in the arts, biotech, higher education, environmental journalism, business, law, and literature will receive honorary degrees during Commencement.

three student class marshalls at Senior Assembly in Johnson Chapel

Senior Assembly 2023

Senior Assembly took place in Johnson Chapel on May 9 and featured addresses by Ernest (E.J.) Terrell Collins Jr. ’23; Maya Roberts ’23; and Edward Melillo, Professor of History and Environmental Studies.

A pic of Amherst College merchandise

Visit the Amherst College Online Store!

No matter where you are in the world, you can show you’re a proud member of the Amherst College community! At the College’s official online store, you’ll find a wide range of apparel and collectibles, from t-shirts and jackets to mugs and hats.

Contact Us

Please contact Conferences and Special Events at (413) 542-2845 or events@amherst.edu if you have questions about Commencement or senior activities. 

Future Commencements

Sunday, May 26, 2024

Past Commencements

Find speeches, photos, and more in our Multimedia Archive.