Rutgers University–New Brunswick and Rutgers Health Commencement

Sunday, May 18
10 a.m.
SHI Stadium

Join us for the 259th Anniversary Commencement at Rutgers University–New Brunswick and Rutgers Health on Sunday, May 18, 2025, at SHI Stadium. The ceremony will include the official conferring of degrees upon graduates and honorary degree recipients.

In addition, partake in the school-based convocation ceremonies designed to complement the commencement ceremony. Here, undergraduate and graduate students are individually recognized in the presence of the dean and peers.

All Rutgers University–New Brunswick and Rutgers Health graduates and their guests are invited to make the most of graduation by attending both the commencement and convocation ceremonies. See you at these momentous events!

Ceremonies & Celebrations

Rutgers University–New Brunswick and Rutgers Health host Commencement and school-based Convocation ceremonies annually in May. Most students who received or expect to receive degrees in August 2024, October 2024, January 2025, May 2025, or August 2025 are eligible to participate in the May 2025 ceremonies. However, eligibility may vary by school. For specific requirements, contact your school directly.

259th Anniversary Commencement

The big celebration. Degrees are officially conferred upon graduates from Rutgers University–New Brunswick and Rutgers Health.

SAS grad crossing stage and shaking hands with Dean with fellow graduates watch.

School Convocations

Graduates have their stage crossing moment and receive individual recognition at these ceremonies.

Click here for more information.

Celebrations and Commissioning

Events that celebrate and recognize the diverse identities of graduates.

Rutgers graduates who complete ROTC training are commissioned into their respective branch of the United States Military.

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Commencement Speaker and Honorary Degree Recipients

These individuals have distinguished themselves by making major contributions to their professions and communities.

259th Commencement Speaker

Peter Seligmann

Peter Seligmann is a global conservation leader with nearly 40 years of experience. He co-founded Conservation International and Nia Tero, helping protect over 1.8 billion acres worldwide. A Rutgers and Yale alum, he now chairs Silvania, a natural capital fund, and teaches at Arizona State University. He also serves on several nonprofit and corporate boards, continuing his lifelong work for a healthier, more equitable planet.

Honorary Doctor of Letters

Laurie L. Patton

Laurie L. Patton, president of the American Academy of Arts & Sciences since 2025, is a scholar, poet, and leader in higher education. She was the first woman to lead Middlebury College, advancing conflict transformation and sustainability. A South Asian religion expert, she held key roles at Duke, Emory, and Bard, authored 11 books, translated The Bhagavad Gita, and led major academic societies.

Honorary Doctor of Laws

Rajiv Vinnakota

Rajiv is a social entrepreneur and president of the Institute for Citizens & Scholars, working to advance civic education and engaged citizenship. A Princeton alum and child of Indian immigrants, he co-leads national civic learning efforts and has shaped the field through research, media, and policy.

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Multiple Ways to Celebrate Your Graduation

What is the difference between Commencement and Convocations?

At Rutgers, all schools come together at Commencement—the biggest academic celebration of the year at SHI Stadium—where degrees will be officially conferred upon the graduates. Graduates are also invited to participate in their school's convocation ceremony (such as the School of Engineering or School of Arts and Sciences), where graduates cross the stage and receive individual recognition. Plus, there are many other celebrations throughout May that you can join in on!

Take a Look Back at 2024 Rutgers University–New Brunswick and Rutgers Health Commencement

The Class of 2024 enters the field at SHI Stadium at the start of Rutgers 258th Anniversary Commencement on Sunday, May 12, 2024.

President Jonathan S. Holloway addresses the Class of 2024 at Rutgers 258th Anniversary Commencement on Sunday, May 12, 2024.

Freeman Hrabowski (Commencement Speaker) delivering remarks

Rutgers University Student Assembly Vice President Aarushi Fernandez

Hana Patel (School of Arts and Sciences), Hiba Shahid (School of Arts and Sciences and Bloustein School) and Libah Farooqi (Rutgers Business School) celebrate in the assembly area at the 258th anniversary commencement ceremonies for Rutgers University–New Brunswick and Rutgers Health class of 2024.

Proud Rutgers graduates

Roy Groething

The Class of 2024 enters the field at SHI Stadium at the start of Rutgers 258th Anniversary Commencement on Sunday, May 12, 2024.