Commencement

156th Commencement Ceremony 2026 Commencement Save the Date!

Graduate Ceremony: Saturday, May 23, 2026

Undergraduate Ceremony: Saturday, May 23, 2026 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 19, 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.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

When will I receive my diploma?

All May 2025 undergraduate and graduate students, who have their degree requirements verified and the degree posted, will be mailed their diploma following the ceremony. Diplomas will be mailed USPS to the diploma address as listed on the graduation application and should be received no later than the second week of June. Graduates who have had a change to their submitted diploma address need to notify regoffice@mcdaniel.edu prior to Monday, May 12.

Does my graduate degree program appear on my diploma?

No major, minor, or specialization will appear on the diploma. The diploma represents the degree earned.

Graduate students will have their name and either the Master of Science or Master of Liberal Arts listed depending on the degree earned and the official graduation date.

Undergraduate students will have their name, Bachelor Arts, and the official graduation date listed on their diploma. If an undergraduate earned Latin honors, it will also be listed on the diploma. Graduate students will have their name and either the Master of Science or Master of Liberal Arts listed depending on the degree earned and the official graduation date.

The degree earned, graduation date, major(s), and any completed minors and/or specializations are listed on your transcript. Your official educational record is the transcript.

How can I purchase photos from Commencement?

Classic Photography will be capturing your graduation photos during your 2025 commencement ceremony. Proofs and ordering information will be sent directly to each graduate's McDaniel email account a few days after the ceremony.

Access 2025 Graduate Ceremony Photos

Access 2025 Undergraduate Ceremony Photos

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!

Shop the collection now!