Commencement

156th Commencement Ceremony 2026 Commencement Save the Date!

Graduate Ceremony: Saturday, May 23, 2026 | 10 a.m.

Undergraduate Ceremony: Saturday, May 23, 2026 | 2 p.m. Event information will be added to this webpage as it becomes available. Please continue to check this webpage regularly for the most up-to-date information.

Additional Commencement Events

Four cadets in a row hold up a hand while reciting their oath at Commissioning.

Friday, May 22, 10 a.m. ROTC Commissioning Ceremony Baker Memorial Chapel

Graduating seniors from McDaniel who are part of the Green Terror Battalion Army ROTC program are commissioned as second lieutenants in the U.S. Army. Army ROTC has been a tradition at the college since 1919, and the Green Terror Battalion, which includes cadets from McDaniel, Hood College and Mount St. Mary’s, is one of the oldest ROTC programs in the nation.

students in graduation regalia walk under the historic stone arch among a display of purple lavender.

Friday, May 22, 6:00 p.m. Senior Arch Processional Baker Memorial Chapel

At 6 p.m., graduating seniors will take part in the traditional "Arch Walk," through Ward Memorial Arch prior to the Senior Investiture and Honors Convocation.

students in graduation regalia pose with awards

Friday, May 22, 6:30 p.m. Senior Investiture and Honors Convocation Baker Memorial Chapel

The annual Senior Investiture and Honors Convocation takes place at 6:30 p.m. May 22 in Baker Memorial Chapel. Graduating seniors receive academic, activity and leadership awards during the ceremony, including the Bates Prize and the Mary Ward Lewis Prize for the graduating seniors with the best undergraduate records.

Cap & Gown Orders

Order your cap, gown, and everything you need to celebrate your achievement.

Order by April 8, 2026 to ensure delivery and best prices!

All commencement participants are required to wear the traditional black regalia.

Shop Regalia

Media Requests

Contact the Office of Communications and Marketing:

Email: ocm@mcdaniel.edu
Phone: (410) 857-2290

Commencement Speaker Nomination

McDaniel College solicits potential Commencement speakers who exemplify the mission and values of the college and have made distinguished and notable contributions to society through scholarship or service. Suggestions must be received by Oct. 10 in order to be considered for the upcoming ceremony.

Nomination Form

Celebrate your Graduate with a Personalized Gift

McDaniel College Jewelry collection Inspired by the college's iconic architecture and symbols.

Celebrate their graduation by gifting a piece of jewelry from the NEW collaboration between McDaniel College and Kyle Cavan. Each piece is meticulously crafted, offering a blend of timeless elegance and collegiate pride. With customizable options for necklaces, bracelets, and cufflinks, you can make the piece as special as your 2025 graduate!

Shop the collection now!

photograph of an illustrated map of McDaniel College

McDaniel College Illustrated Map collection Featuring the college’s landmarks and memorable spots

Help them remember their time on the Hill forever with a colorful watercolor illustrated map of their favorite campus spots NEWLY designed by Stephanie Madsen Art. Prints can be customized with your student’s name and class year for a personalized touch. Tea towels, tote bags, stickers, magnets, mugs, and blank note cards are a great way to thank those who supported your student on their academic journey!