170th Commencement
May 17, 2026
On Sunday, May 17, 2026 Tufts will convene its 170th Commencement. This event is divided into two parts, the All University Commencement ceremony (phase I) and the individual degree ceremonies (phase II).
All University Commencement (Phase I)
At the All-University Commencement ceremony, Tufts’ eight schools are celebrated. Phase I takes place on The Green, between Ballou Hall and Bendetson Hall.
School and Department Ceremonies (Phase II)
The individual department and school ceremonies immediately follow phase I. It is at these ceremonies that graduates’ names are announced, and students are individually recognized.
2026 Commencement Speaker and Honorary Degree Recipients
Ken Frazier, chairman of General Catalyst’s Health Assurance initiatives and former president, CEO, and executive chairman of Merck, will deliver the commencement address to the Tufts University Class of 2026 on Sunday, May 17. Two other distinguished individuals will receive honorary degrees as part of the Class of 2026: Terri Lyne Carrington, award-winning musician, producer, and educator; and David Walt, scientist, educator, and entrepreneur.
Read more about our commencement speaker and 2026 honorary degree recipients in Tufts Now.
Schedule
Monday, May 11, 2026
Senior Week begins
Thursday, May 14, 2026
Master’s Graduation Celebration, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences
Friday, May 15, 2026
Tufts Night at Pops
Commencement Program Books
Request your complimentary hard copy of the program book, featuring the full list of graduate names from Tufts’ 170th Commencement. Please complete the form by May 31, 2026—books will be printed and mailed in July 2026.
FAQs
Find the answers to your questions for our 170th Commencement. More information will be added as we finalize plans.