Commencement Weekend consists of a number of events to recognize the accomplishments of our graduating class. Starting Friday, May 15, graduates and their families and guests can join in celebration with faculty and staff in a range of activities, culminating in the Commencement Exercises on Sunday, May 17.
Schedule updated 4/27/26.
Friday, May 15, 2026
11 a.m. - 2 p.m. | OBSA Celebration of Excellence
The Office of Black Student Affairs hosts the annual Celebration of Excellence ceremony to commemorate students obtaining degrees from each of The Claremont Colleges (the 5 undergraduate institutions and both graduate institutions). This inclusive and free celebratory event is open to Claremont Colleges students, faculty, staff and guests of graduates.
3:30 p.m. | Baccalaureate Service of The Claremont Colleges
Balch Auditorium, Scripps College
This interfaith program is hosted by the The Chaplains Office for graduates of both the undergraduate and graduate schools of The Claremont Colleges.
5 p.m. | Phi Beta Kappa Induction
The Pomona College Chapter of Phi Beta Kappa, established in 1914, was the third (or, "Gamma") chapter established in California. Seniors and juniors "who are of good moral character, and who are distinguished for breadth of culture and excellence of scholarship" may be elected to membership in the Phi Beta Kappa Society.
Students who will be installed into chapter are notified just prior to spring break.
Saturday, May 16, 2026
10 a.m. - 2 p.m. | Department Receptions
Many of Pomona College's academic departments hold receptions in celebration of their graduates' achievements.
2:30 p.m. | Mandatory Commencement Rehearsal for Graduates
Fourth Street Pedestrian Walkway
This rehearsal is mandatory for all graduates who will participate in the Commencement Ceremony. Graduates should assemble on the walkway in front of Bridges Hall of Music.
3:30 p.m. | Class Photo
Join the Class of 2026 in taking their final class photo, mirroring their move-in day experience.
4 - 6 p.m. | Class Day Reception
Graduates and their families and guests are invited to a brief program featuring class-elected speakers celebrating the Class of 2026.
8 - 10 p.m. | Evening of Music and Art: Glee Club Concert and Reception
As part of our Evening of Music and Art, the Pomona College Glee Club invites you to a concert and reception celebrating our graduating seniors. Led by Professor Donna M. Di Grazia, the ensemble will present a rich tapestry of unaccompanied choral works by Reena Esmail, Caroline Shaw, Arvo Pärt, Clara Schumann and others.
8 - 10 p.m. | Evening of Music and Art: Senior Art Exhibition
As part of our Evening of Music and Art, the Pomona College Art Department invites you to an exhibition reception celebrating our graduating seniors. Afterimages: Recortes del Hogar / Cutouts of the Home features artworks by ten senior art majors to include a variety of media including drawings, paintings, embroidery, knitted works, quilts, sculpture, and installations.
Sunday, May 17, 2026
8 a.m. | Commencement Guest Seating Opens
Guests are welcome to take their seats for the Commencement ceremony. Commencement seating is unassigned and guests are asked to save no more than one extra seat for each person present in their party. Please plan accordingly to arrive and sit with your party.
9:30 a.m. | Student & Faculty Lineup
Stover Walk
Students and Faculty prepare for the Commencement procession, which kicks off the Commencement ceremony.
Families and guests are asked to keep the walkway clear, to aid Commencement staff in preparing for the on-time start of the ceremony.
10 a.m. | Commencement Ceremony
The Commencement ceremony will take place outdoors in a grassy area, rain or shine, and typically lasts about 2.5 hours. Water and coffee stations will be available. Guests should plan their attire according to the weather forecast.