After a dispiriting long pause in campus events caused by the pandemic, Columbia’s 2022 Commencement was held in-person last month. The ceremonies, which took place from May 13–23, honored not just the class of 2022 but also the graduates of 2020 and 2021 who had missed out on festivities. Here are some key moments captured by campus photographers.
Graduates of Columbia College celebrated with inflatable lions.
Lee C. Bollinger, who will step down as University President next year, spoke to the class of 2022 about the importance of free speech, the ubiquity of disinformation in today’s world, and the critical role of universities in a liberal society.
Graduates posed for selfies with Roar-ee.
Former first lady, US senator, and presidential candidate Hillary Clinton accepted an honorary doctor of laws degree and gave a short, impromptu speech congratulating the class of 2022.
Numerous caps were decked out with school spirit.
At the celebration for the classes of 2020 and 2021, musical-theater star Brandon Victor Dixon ’07CC, known for his roles in Hamilton, The Color Purple, Jesus Christ Superstar, and other productions, performed Tom Kitt’s original song “Oh, Columbia” with Kitt ’96CC accompanying him on piano.
Graduates of the School of International and Public Affairs classes of 2020 and 2021 showcased Columbia's global reach.
The rain couldn’t dampen celebrations for a few schools, including Engineering, General Studies, Public Health, and Barnard.
A new generation of doctors accepted degrees from the Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons.
Thousands of people, including new graduates, alumni, students, faculty, staff, family, and friends, celebrated Commencement together in a sea of Columbia blue.
