On May 19, at the morning's all-university ceremony, foreign intelligence advisor and author Fiona Hill delivered the commencement address to the Class of 2024 on the Green of the Medford/Somerville campus. Here, we share special moments from Commencement weekend.

All-University Commencement Ceremony

Students from across Tufts' schools participated in the All-University Commencement ceremony, which was held on the Green. It included the Academic Procession, the awarding of honorary degrees, the Commencement address, recognition of faculty emeriti, the presentation of degree candidates, and the granting of degrees by the Tufts University Board of Trustees. 

Illumination: A Tufts Tradition

The Illumination Ceremonies are a longstanding and beloved Tufts tradition that take place in the first weeks of new student Orientation and again on the eve of Commencement. According to legend, when Charles Tufts donated the land for the university to be built upon, he said he would put “a light on that hill.” By lighting candles during Illumination, we remind ourselves of our responsibility as a community to seek knowledge and to partner with communities and the world beyond to promote peace. 

A Cherished Moment: Baccalaureate Service

On May 18, the Baccalaureate Service marked the last time the undergraduate class came together as a group before Commencement. This multifaith celebration, begun in 1864, honors the heritage of spirituality and values at Tufts through a diversity of religions, philosophies, and cultures in the form of music, readings, and blessings. 

Tufts University chaplains welcomed guests to the Gantcher Family Sports and Convocation Center and President Sunil Kumar addressed the class. Saffiyah Coker, A24, gave the Wendell Phillips Address.