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Whitman College
Whitman students walking across a lawn wearing a mix of formal wear and graduation regalia

Commencement

Academic Calendar
President Bolton in academic regalia speaking at a lectern

May 23

A Milestone Day

141st Commencement Ceremony

Whitman College will celebrate its 141st Commencement ceremony on Sunday, May 23, 2027 at 10 a.m. (the processional starts at 9:50 a.m.). The ceremony will be held on the south lawn of the Memorial Building. 

Celebrating the Future

A Day of Achievement & Celebration

Our commencement ceremony embodies the essence of our students’ journey—marking a pivotal moment of reflection, achievement and the exciting transition towards promising futures. We invite you to join us in this celebration of academic excellence and the bright horizons that await our graduates.

Information for Graduating Seniors Schedule of Events Frequently Asked Questions Accessibility Commencement Map Commencement History
Gwendolyn Trice

Remember to stay open to the experience of others. Be willing to be uncomfortable. Seek to understand experiences that are not similar to your own.

Gwendolyn Trice, Whitman’s 2026 Commencement Speaker

Watch the 2026 Commencement Ceremony

Commencement News

A blue and gold tassel with a 2026 charm hanging from a student’s graduation cap

Ready to Make Their Mark: Meet Whitman’s Newest Alums

A few weeks ago, more than 300 new Whitman College alumni stepped across the stage to collect their diplomas. We caught up with a few as they wrapped up their senior year. Revisit highlights from their years at Whitman—and welcome the Class of 2026 to the alumni family!
June 29, 2026

[Alt] Lucas McAllister (third from left) stands on a soccer field holding a framed jersey with the number 10

Lucas McAllister ’26: Student-Athlete & Future Physical Therapist

As an award-winning student-athlete at Whitman College, Lucas McAllister ’26 built close connections with teammates, coaches and professors that inspired a future career in healthcare.
June 29, 2026

A graduate in a blue cap and gown celebrates above a crowd of classmates

Catalysts for Change: The Class of 2026 Celebrates Their Commencement

More than 300 graduates of Whitman College’s Class of 2026 received their diplomas on Sunday, May 24, in a sunny celebration in front of Memorial Building, featuring historian and justice advocate Gwendolyn Trice as commencement speaker.
May 24, 2026