Alum Celebration
In-Person Commencement for the Class of 2020
Saturday, May 28, 2022 at 10:30 a.m.
Welcome and Presidential Remarks
Elizabeth H. Bradley, President
Remarks
Heather Phan Nguyen ’20, Senior Class President
Kevin Arce ’20, Council of ALANA Seniors, President
Kevin Cañas ’20, Class Correspondent
Conferring of Degrees
Elizabeth H. Bradley, President
Graduates presented by Thomas Porcello, Dean of Studies
Weekend Schedule
Friday, May 27
3:00 p.m.
Affinity Ceremony
The Chapel
Students and loved ones will gather to “bend” a Vassar tradition by celebrating all affinity groups in a single ceremony. Diverse student voices will be uplifted with a mix of guest speakers and an opportunity for impromptu reflections. All members of the Class of 2020 are highly encouraged to wear their cap and gown, and if applicable, the cloths (e.g. Kente, Sarape, Red Satin), sashes or cords (e.g. Lavender) associated with their academic, affinity or identity communities. Open to all members of the Class of 2020.
5:00 p.m.
Senior Reception
Main Building, 2nd Floor
An informal gathering for the Class of 2020 to kick off the weekend. Join members of the Class of 2020 for refreshments and a photo (at 6:30 pm) in the Villard Room.
7:00 p.m.
Board buses for Senior Formal
Main Drive
7:30 p.m.
Senior Formal
DuBois Farms, Highland, NY
A time for the Class of 2020 to gather and celebrate at a beautiful off-campus venue. Join members of the Class of 2020 for a long-held tradition of Senior Week for Vassar students throughout the years. Transportation to and from the venue will be provided.
Saturday, May 28
10:30 a.m.
Commencement Ceremony
Moved indoors to the Athletic and Fitness Center
An opportunity for the Class of 2020 and their loved ones to celebrate commencement in-person. All names will be read by the Dean of the College, and graduates of the Class of 2020 are invited to wear caps and gowns. Following the Conferring of Degrees, there will be a reception on the library lawn. Guests are welcome to attend. Due to the anticipation of inclement weather, the ceremony has been moved indoors to the Athletic and Fitness Center. Read the President’s memo. This event will also be livestreamed.
3:00 p.m.
Academic Department Receptions
Various Locations Around Campus (PDF)
Gatherings, hosted by academic departments, to celebrate the Class of 2020. Guests of the graduates are welcome to join as well. Please check back for updates regarding the locations of various academic department receptions.
4:30 p.m.
Tree Ceremony/Time Capsule
Vision Grove (West Exit of the Bridge Building)
Join members of the Class of 2020 and watch the official time capsule be buried underneath the Class of 2020 tree. Note: There may be opportunities for members of the Class of 2020 to add small items (handwritten notes or photos) to the capsule at this time.
5:00–7:00 p.m.
Wine and Cheese Reception
Loeb Sculpture Garden (Atrium for inclement weather)
8:00 p.m.
50 Nights
College Center, Villard Room
Join the Class of 2020 for a belated celebration of 50 nights until graduation. The Class of 2020 will gather on campus to dance the night away!
11:00 p.m.
Late Night at The Retreat
College Center, The Retreat
Join members of the Class of 2020 after 50 Nights for familiar late-night snacks.
Sunday, May 29
9:00 a.m.
Memorial Service
Library Lawn
A gathering where members of the Class of 2020 can reflect on the trials, tribulations, and victories they have experienced since Spring 2020. This will take place on Library Lawn and will be facilitated by members of the Class of 2020.
10:00 a.m.
Brunch
Gordon Commons
Join members of the Class of 2020 for a final meal together! Guests are welcome to join.
