This video does not contain audio

Bucknell graduates toss their caps in the air after Commencement

Commencement

Bucknell's 176th Commencement Ceremony, honoring the Class of 2026, will take place on Sunday, May 17, 2026. The ceremony begins at 10 a.m. Access to Malesardi Quad will open at 7:30 a.m.

Tickets are not required if the ceremony is held outdoors on Malesardi Quadrangle.

This page will continue to be updated over the next several months with additional information, so please keep checking back. 

Graduation

Registration for Commencement Weekend events is now open

Register now

Commencement Security Procedures

  • Access to Malesardi Quadrangle will open at 7:30 a.m. on Sunday. Guests are encouraged to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the ceremony to allow time for security screening and seating.
  • All Commencement guests and graduates will pass through a security checkpoint to access Malesardi Quadrangle. Prohibited items will not be permitted inside. 
  • Only small clutch bags and bags made of clear plastic will be allowed into Malesardi Quad. Plastic bags will be available for purchase at the University Bookstore and the Elaine Langone Center ground floor.

 

A clear bag that shows internal contents. This bag is allowed at commencement.
Small clutch bag the size of a hand. Hand holding bag for scale.

View all safety and emergency information

Commencement Week Schedule 2026

Schedule is subject to change. Please check back often for updates.

Ken Freeman

Meet Bucknell’s 2026 Commencement Speaker

Bucknell University's 176th Commencement

Ken Freeman '72


Ken Freeman '72 — a distinguished business executive, academic leader and the namesake of Bucknell's Freeman College of Management — will deliver the Commencement address at Bucknell University's 176th Commencement on Sunday, May 17, 2026.

Read the story
Graduation

Answers to your most common Commencement questions

Commencement 2025 Highlights

Honor Your Graduate

Congratulations, Parents!

We invite you to participate in a Bucknell tradition by making a gift to Bucknell in honor of your senior's upcoming graduation. Your collective gifts support today’s students and future generations of Bucknellians, helping them grow into broadly educated leaders ready for success.

Graduation

Commencement printables

Blue, orange, and white collage of Commencement 2025 printable items: a yard sign, a pendant, a drink wrapper, buffet sign and food topper

Show off your Bucknell spirit

Congratulations Class of 2026!

Commencement 2026 Printables are here! Add some orange and blue to your event! Print out your very own Class of 2026 Commencement yard signs, pennants, buffet signs, drink wrappers and food toppers!

Contact Details

Commencement

Contact

Commencement Hotline: 570-577-1192

Hours

Monday - Friday: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.