Hobart and William Smith Colleges

Retiring Professor of Sociology Wes Perkins delivers the Baccalaureate Address on Saturday.

President Mark D. Gearan takes a selfie with members of the Class of 2024 during the Senior Soiree and Toast.

During the William Smith Welcome, students plant a tree on the Hill.

Druids lead a procession to the Hobart Launch.

Joined by President Mark D. Gearan, Peace Corps Director Carol Spahn connects with former Peace Corps volunteers Professors Diana Baker and Richard Salter, and Alanson Loomis ’24, who will serve in Fiji, and Ahmed Wise ’24, who will serve in Kenya.

A Commencement morning tradition, seniors gather at the Bozzuto Boathouse to watch the sunrise.

As is tradition, students jump in Seneca Lake after watching the sunrise.

Students gather for a photo in the Vandervort Room during robing.

Students pause for a photo while processing to the Quad.

Professors of Sociology Wes Perkins and Jack Harris lead the faculty procession. They are applauded by the Class of 2024.

During his valedictory address, President Mark D. Gearan called upon the graduates to lead a life of consequence by living a life committed to purpose, meaning and accomplishment.

Best-selling author, screenwriter and producer Jessica Knoll ’06 receives her honorary degree hood from Professor of Sociology Jack Harris P’02, P’06.

President Mark D. Gearan introduces decorated air combat veteran and former HWS Director of Alumni Relations Lt. Col. John E. Norvell ’66, P’99, P’02 as he receives his honorary degree.

Dylan Rawlins ’16 accepts an honorary degree on behalf of his father, the late HWS Trustee Michael Rawlins ’80, P’16, who served at the Walt Disney Company as Head of Enterprise Content and the Broadcast Media Design Team.

Family and friends watch the ceremony.

Peace Corps Director Carol Spahn urges students to take intentional action to create “authentic personal, curious, human connections made across difference” during her Commencement address.

A biochemistry major’s decorated mortarboard says, “Coming to a lab near you.”

Senior Speaker Jesse Whelan-Small ’24 praised the “tangible sense of place” at Hobart and William Smith and the passion he’s developed for his HWS family.

Senior Speaker Samari Brown ’24 commended the challenges the Class of 2024 has overcome. “The COVID-19 restrictions were strong, but the friendships that we have made along the way are stronger.”

John Finnerty ’24 receives his diploma from his aunt, Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees Cassandra Naylor Brooks ’89.

Madison Henry '23, MAT '24 accepts her diploma from President Mark D. Gearan.

Family and friends cheer for their graduates.

The Class of 2024 throws their mortarboards in the air.

Kayleigh Aquino ’24 celebrates her graduation with family and friends.

William Smith lacrosse seniors throw their mortarboards on Monday following a small ceremony. The team plays in the NCAA national semifinal in Salem, Virginia on Friday, May 24 at 3 p.m.