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Commencement

Congratulations are in order! Commencement Weekend is our chance to honor your accomplishments and celebrate you. We loved seeing you, your families, loved ones, and friends gather together to take part in Smith’s time-honored traditions of Ivy Day, Illumination Night, and our Commencement Ceremony. We’re excited about sending graduates off to new adventures with the knowledge that your connection to Smith will always remain.

Smith College Commencement 2026

“Continue Along the Bright Path”

At Smith College’s 148th Commencement, speakers shared messages of unity and hope with the class of 2026.

“We have to support each other because the truth is, we make the world go around,” said honorary degree recipient Dawn Staley. “Without us, it all stops.”

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President Sarah Willie-LeBreton smiles at the podium during Ivy Day 2026

“You Are All Whole Smithies”

In her remarks to the Class of 2026 on Ivy Day, President Sarah Willie-LeBreton spoke of today’s challenges and the central mission of Smithies of every generation to tackle them head-first. 

“Every generation of Smithies inherits something from the last and passes something forward.”

Read Her Full Remarks

We understand that international students who hope to have family members attend graduation may need documentation about their travels. Please see the International Students & Scholars Office’s travel page for more information about how to obtain a personal letter of invitation.

Photo by Henry Amistadi

Meet the Honorary Degree Recipients

Three remarkable leaders will offer words of wisdom to Smith graduates on Commencement Day. Learn a bit about each of them.

Dawn Staley

Head coach of the University of South Carolina women’s basketball team, hall of fame inductee, and Olympian

Chizuko Ueno

Renowned sociologist, feminist theorist, and a member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences

Carol Hillman ’49

Influential educator and environmental steward whose work has influenced early childhood education for decades

Questions? Contact the Events Management Office at smithevents@smith.edu.