Duke holds one university-wide commencement ceremony to celebrate the three graduating classes of that academic year. September 2023, December 2023, and May 2024 graduates from all ten Duke schools are invited to attend. Graduates will be required to register their guests.
The ceremony begins with the procession of degree candidates, faculty, administration, and platform party. President Vincent E. Price presides over the ceremony and remarks are given by a selected student and a keynote speaker. This year’s commencement speaker is comedian Jerry Seinfeld. Duke also awards honorary degrees during the ceremony to people who have exemplified the highest ideals and standards in their work.
The commencement ceremony typically concludes by 11 AM, and many departments host gatherings and departmental ceremonies in the afternoon.