Providence Commencement

2025 Commencement

Commencement is the formal ceremony that is held to recognize and honor degree candidates for graduation. These graduation ceremonies celebrate the traditional observances that accompany one of the highest rewards of academic achievement.

  • Pre-commencement activities and graduation ceremonies are outlined below (additional activities for students are listed in the commencement group in jwuLink).
  • Please refer to the Student Handbook to review the eligibility criteria for participation.
  • Use the navigation menu links for detailed information and instructions.

We recommend goprovidence.com for hotel and lodging options. Because rooms can book quickly, we suggest making reservations as early as possible.

2025 Senior Week

  • Tuesday, April 29 to Friday, May 2
  • Held between the end of final exams and the day of commencement, this is a series of events for seniors to hang out with friends one last time while celebrating graduation. 
  • Please check back for schedule and registration info; email involved.pvd@jwu.edu with related questions.

2025 Pre-Commencement Senior Toast

  • Friday, May 2, 3:00-5:00 PM at The Wildcat Center (305 Shipyard Street, Providence, RI)
  • Providence-based undergraduate degree recipients and their guests are invited to join faculty and staff for a fun, memorable, and complimentary celebration.
  • Light refreshments will be served and President Marie Bernardo-Sousa, LP.D., '92 will lead a champagne toast (proper ID required; non-alcoholic options available as well).
  • Graduates are encouraged to wear their graduation gown and take photos!
  • Lot F will be open for guest parking.
  • Please check back for the RSVP form; email involved.pvd@jwu.edu with related questions.

2025 Graduate Studies Commencement Ceremony

  • Saturday, May 3 at Amica Mutual Pavilion
  • 9:00 AM Arrival (Doors Open) | 10:00 Procession (Prompt Start Time) | 11:30 Recessional (Approximate End Time)
  • Review Arrival Instructions (tickets not required)
  • Watch the Livestream (check back for link)

2025 Undergraduate Commencement Ceremony

  • Saturday, May 3 at Amica Mutual Pavilion
  • 1:00 PM Arrival (Doors Open) | 2:00 Procession (Prompt Start Time) | 4:00-4:30 Recessional (Approximate End Time)
  • Review Arrival Instructions (tickets required)
  • Watch the Livestream (check back for link)