Commencement Archive

2023 Commencement

73rd Commencement Week
Saturday, May 20, 2023

Baccalaureate Mass

Saturday, May 20, 2023 | 4 p.m.
All baccalaureate, master's and doctoral graduates and their families and friends are invited to join as part of the University community for the Baccalaureate Mass in the Leo D. Mahoney Arena.

Undergraduate Ceremony

Bellarmine Lawn | Sunday, May 21, 2023, 9:30 a.m.

Commencement Speaker: Marcela Orvañanos de Rovzar, recipient of an Honorary Doctor of Laws Degree

Honorary Recipient: Mary Beth Powers

Graduate Ceremony

Bellarmine Lawn | Saturday, May 20, 2023, 9:30 a.m.

Commencement Speaker: Geoffrey Canada, recipient of an Honorary Doctor of Laws Degree

Honorary Recipient: Charles MacCormack, PhD

Read the Press Release Regarding Both Ceremonies

Ceremony Recordings

73rd Commencement Exercises | Undergraduate Ceremony

Undergraduate Ceremony

73rd Commencement Exercises | Graduate Ceremony

Graduate Ceremony

73rd Commencement Exercises | Graduate Ceremony

Baccalaureate Mass

Throwback Photos

Class of 2019 Alumni & Family Weekend image

2019 Alumni & Family Weekend


Class of 2023 Move-in Day image

Class of 2023 Move-in Day


Class of 2023 Orientation image

Class of 2023 Orientation


Presidential Ball 2022 photo

Presidential Ball 2022



Class of 2023 Facebook Group

The official Fairfield University Class of 2023 Facebook Group.

View Facebook Group


Our work here...is to educate individuals to go set the world on fire. For we as a Jesuit Catholic institution are committed to universal truth and justice. We as a Jesuit Catholic university most humbly acknowledge that no one individual or collective owns this truth, or knows the path, and thus we commit above all else through faith to the fullness of truth.

Fairfield University President Mark R. Nemec, PhD, in his closing remarks to the Class of 2023
Overhead drone shot of Fairfield University's 73rd Commencement exercises, held on the lush, sun-drenched Bellarmine Lawn.
Fairfield Celebrates Class of 2023 at 73rd Commencement

Fairfield University celebrated 1,171 undergraduates, 519 graduate students, 49 doctorate recipients and 20 sixth-year certificate recipients, at its 73rd Commencement ceremonies.

Read the 73rd Commencement Recap on FairfieldNews

2022 Commencement

72nd Commencement Week
Saturday, May 21, 2021

Baccalaureate Mass

Saturday, May 21, 2021 | 4 p.m.
All baccalaureate, master's and doctoral graduates and their families and friends are invited to join as part of the University community for the Baccalaureate Mass in Alumni Hall.

Undergraduate Ceremony

Bellarmine Lawn | Sunday, May 22, 2022, 9:30 a.m.

Commencement Speaker: Robert D. Manfred Jr., attorney and business executive

Honorary Recipient: Nicole Hockley

Graduate Ceremony

Bellarmine Lawn | Saturday, May 21, 2022, 9:30 a.m.

Commencement Speaker: Allison Joy Rivera, president of Saint Martin de Porres Academy, New Haven

Honorary Recipient: Carl F. Bailey Jr. ’75

Ceremony Recordings

72nd Commencement Exercises | Undergraduate Ceremony

Undergraduate Ceremony

72nd Commencement Exercises | Graduate Ceremony

Graduate Ceremony

Throwback Photos

Class of 2022 White Coat Ceremony image

Class of 2022 White Coat Ceremony


2018 Alumni Family Weekend image

2018 Alumni Family Weekend


Class of 2022 Move-In image

Class of 2022 Move-In


Class of 2022 Orientation image

Class of 2022 Orientation


Class of 2022 Pep Rally image

Class of 2022 Pep Rally


2021 Presidential Ball (Class of 2022) image

2021 Presidential Ball (Class of 2022)


Videos

2018 Alumni Family Weekend Video

2018 Alumni Family Weekend


Welcome Home Stags - Move-In Class of 2022 Video

Welcome Home Stags - Move-In Class of 2022


2018 Red Sea Madness Video

2018 Red Sea Madness


Class of 2022 Facebook Group

The official Fairfield University Class of 2022 Facebook Group.

View Facebook Group


You will all have busy and successful lives. Please find room and time in those busy lives to positively affect the lives of others... Be generous with your wealth and try to help those who are less fortunate. At the end of the day, what you do for others is what really matters.

Robert D. Manfred Jr., attorney and business executive, in his Commencement speech addressing the undergraduate class of 2022
Fairfield University Stag Graduate of 2022 smiling and holding up the red holster for his hard-earned degree.
Fairfield University Celebrates Class of 2022 at 72nd Commencement Exercises

Fairfield University awarded diplomas to 1,082 undergraduates and 499 graduate students, 23 sixth-year certificate recipients, and 39 doctorate recipients.

Read the 72nd Commencement Recap on FairfieldNews

2021 Commencement

71st Commencement Week
Sunday, May 23, 2021

Baccalaureate Mass

Sunday May 16, 2021 | 11 a.m. & 5 p.m.
Sunday May 23, 2021 | 11 a.m.

While we were not able to host our traditional Baccalaureate Mass this year, we are excited to host a 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. Mass on Sunday, May 16 as well as an 11 a.m. Mass on Sunday, May 23 in celebration of all Class of 2021 graduates.

Undergraduate Ceremony

Bellarmine Lawn | 9:30 a.m.

Commencement Speaker: Judy Woodruff, anchor and managing editor of PBS NewsHour

Student Commencement Speaker: Michelle Jasko '21

Graduate Ceremony

Bellarmine Lawn | 9:30 a.m.

Commencement Speaker: Judy Woodruff, anchor and managing editor of PBS NewsHour

Throwback Photos

2017 Orientation image

2017 Orientation

2017 Orientation image

Alumni & Family Weekend 2017


Videos

Class Of 2021 First-Year Academic Gathering Video

Class Of 2021 First-Year Academic Gathering

Fairfield in Focus 2017 Video

Fairfield in Focus 2017

Class of 2021 Move-In Day Video

Class of 2021 Move-In Day


Class of 2021 Facebook Group

The official Fairfield University Class of 2021 Facebook Group.

View Facebook Group


The main difference between those who succeed at their goals and those who don’t, is simply not giving up. Look around you. Those who keep going — who learn that lesson: that things won’t always go your way, but that can’t stop you — those are the ones who end up making a difference.

Judy Woodruff, anchor and managing editor of PBS NewsHour, in her Commencement speech addressing the undergraduate and graduate classes of 2021
Fairfield University Stag Graduates of 2020 at their Academic Celebration, dressed in their black graduation regalia, some conversing while the two individuals in the foreground are giving one another a celebratory hug.
70th and 71st Commencements Celebrated at Fairfield

Fairfield University conferred a total of 952 bachelor’s, 414 master’s, and 41 doctorates degrees, as well as 23 sixth-year certificates at the combined 2021 ceremonies on Sunday, May 23.

Read the 70th and 71st Commencement Recap on FairfieldNews

Flickr Album

View the Undergraduate Class of 2021 Academic Celebrations Photos

View the Class of 2021 flickr Album

2020 Commencement

70th Commencement Weekend
Saturday, May 22, 2020

Baccalaureate Mass

Sunday May 16, 2020 | 11 a.m. & 5 p.m.
Sunday May 23, 2020 | 11 a.m.

While we were not able to host our traditional Baccalaureate Mass this year, we are excited to host a 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. Mass on Sunday, May 16 as well as an 11 a.m. Mass on Sunday, May 23 in celebration of all Class of 2020 graduates.

Undergraduate Ceremony

College of Arts & Sciences; Marion Peckham Egan School of Nursing and Health Studies | Bellarmine Lawn | 9:30 a.m.
Charles F. Dolan School of Business; School of Engineering | Bellarmine Lawn | 2 p.m.

Commencement Speaker: Mark. R. Nemec, PhD, Fairfield University's 9th President

Student Commencement Speaker: Teresa Ann Sauer '20

Graduate Ceremony

Virtual | 9:30 a.m.

Throwback Photos

2016 Orientation image

2016 Orientation

2016 Orientation image

Alumni & Family Weekend 2016


Videos

Move-In Day Video

Class of 2020 Move-In Day Video

Class of 2020 Fall Academic Convocation

Class of 2020 Fall Academic Convocation

Congrats You’re In 2020

Congrats You’re In 2020


Class of 2020 Facebook Group

The official Fairfield University Class of 2020 Facebook Group.

View Facebook Group


About Our Class

Image of Class of 2020 Infographic

The restoration of our global community depends on our drive and strength, even in the face of uncertainty and hardship.

Teresa Ann Sauer '20, Student Commencement Speaker
Fairfield University Stag Graduates of 2020 at their Academic Celebration, dressed in their black graduation regalia, some conversing while the two individuals in the foreground are giving one another a celebratory hug.
70th and 71st Commencements Celebrated at Fairfield

Fairfield University honored more than 700 graduates at the 2020 ceremony on Saturday, May 22.

Read the 70th and 71st Commencement Recap on FairfieldNews

Flickr Album

View the Undergraduate Class of 2020 Academic Celebrations Photos

View the Class of 2020 flickr Album

2019 Commencement

69th Commencement Weekend
Sunday, May 19, 2019

Baccalaureate Mass

Saturday May 18, 2019 | 4 p.m.
All baccalaureate, master's and doctoral graduates and their families and friends are invited to join as part of the University community for the Baccalaureate Mass in Alumni Hall.


Undergraduate Ceremony

Bellarmine Lawn | 9:30 a.m.

Keynote Speaker: Chris Lowney, co-founder of Jesuit Commons, and vice-chair of the board of CommonSpirit Health

Valedictory Speaker: Elisa Castelli ’19, Finance Major

Graduate Ceremony

Bellarmine Lawn | 3 p.m.

Keynote Speaker: Billy Shore, founder of Share Our Strength and former Congressional appointee to the National Commission on Hunger


Bearing witness makes us complicit. What we’ve seen can’t be unseen—and we are left with a profound choice: do something or do nothing. [...] The time we’re allotted to solve problems is limited and precious. Don’t wait until the mortgage is paid, or until you get the promotion, or until it stops raining.

Billy Shore, founder of Share Our Strength and former Congressional appointee to the National Commission on Hunger, in his keynote speech addressing the Graduate Class of 2019
Fairfield University Class of 2019 Stag graduates posing and smiling for the camera
69th Commencement Ceremonies

Fairfield University awarded more than 950 bachelor's degrees, and nearly 400 master's degrees, advanced certificates, and doctorates at the 2019 ceremonies on Sunday, May 19.

Read the 69th Commencement Recap on FairfieldNews

2018 Commencement

68th Commencement Weekend
Sunday, May 20, 2018

Baccalaureate Mass

Saturday May 19, 2018 | 4 p.m.
All baccalaureate, master's and doctoral graduates and their families and friends are invited to join as part of the University community for the Baccalaureate Mass in Alumni Hall.


Undergraduate Ceremony

Bellarmine Lawn | 9:30 a.m.

Keynote Speaker: Brother Guy Joseph Consolmagno, S.J., director of the Vatican Observatory and president of the Vatican Observatory Foundation

Valedictory Speaker: Michael Harding ’18

Graduate Ceremony

Bellarmine Lawn | 3 p.m.

Keynote Speaker: John R. Mitchell, Chairman of Mitchell's stores

Read the 68th Commencement Recap on FairfieldNews About the Additional Honorary Degree Recipients

Videos

Commencement Cab - Episode 2

#StagGrad

Commencement Cab - Episode 1

Commencement Cab | Episode 1

Commencement Cab - Episode 2

Commencement Cab | Episode 2


You are the instantiation of Fairfield's commitment to educate men and women for and with others in the pursuit of social justice and productive citizenship. Your education is ever relevant.

Mark. R. Nemec, PhD, Fairfield University's 9th President
Michael Harding '18 giving the valedictory speech during Fairfield University's undergraduate Commencement ceremony
68th Commencement Ceremonies

Proud families and friends celebrated the Class of 2018 on campus — and thousands more joined in via livestream on social media — as the University awarded 990 bachelor's degrees, 385 master's degrees, 15 sixth-year certificates, and 39 doctorates on Sunday, May 20.

Read the 68th Commencement Recap on FairfieldNews

2017 Commencement

65th Commencement Weekend
Sunday, May 21, 2017

Baccalaureate Mass

Saturday May 20, 2017 | 4 p.m.
All baccalaureate, master's and doctoral graduates and their families and friends are invited to join as part of the University community for the Baccalaureate Mass in Alumni Hall.


Undergraduate Ceremony

Bellarmine Lawn | 9:30 a.m.

Keynote Speaker: Fairfield University President Emeritus Rev. Jeffrey P. von Arx, S.J.

Graduate Ceremony

Bellarmine Lawn | 3 p.m.

Keynote Speaker: Juanita James, President & CEO of Fairfield County's Community Foundation

Undergraduate Commencement Recording

Watch the Reording of Commencement

Graduate Commencement Recording

Watch the Reording of Commencement

Videos

#StagGrad

#StagGrad

Two Fairfield University Class of 2017 Stag graduates dressed in Commencement robes and smiling for the camera

Commencement 2017 Flickr Album


President's Address

Dear Fairfield University degree candidates:

On Sunday, May 21, 2017, Fairfield University will hold its Commencement exercises. The ceremony for undergraduates will be at 9:30 a.m. and the graduate ceremony at 3 p.m. - both ceremonies will be held on Bellarmine Lawn. For the University, this marks a milestone in that it will be the institution's 67th commencement. More importantly, for all of you, this is a moment to acknowledge years of hard work and sacrifice along with what has, hopefully, been a time of transformation.

This Commencement is an important ending and an exciting new beginning. Speaking on behalf of our Board of Trustees, faculty and staff, I hope that your educational experience at Fairfield has led you to know yourself better and that you have developed a passion for lifelong learning. For it is only through that passion that you will continue to learn, question and analyze - all hallmarks of an individual who is especially equipped to contribute to the social and economic well-being of their communities and the world.

In addition to our Commencement ceremonies on Sunday, May 21, I invite you to join our community for the Baccalaureate Mass that will be held in Alumni Hall at 4 p.m. on Saturday, May 20. Prior to Commencement weekend, look forward to a number of celebratory activities during Senior Week for our undergraduate students as well as special school-based events for both undergraduates and graduates that will offer opportunities to further engage with faculty and classmates prior to the next phase of your Fairfield experience when you become alumni of this special and distinctive institution.

As we move towards the middle of this academic year, I, as President, want to take this opportunity to congratulate you on your successful accomplishments. All of us at Fairfield University look forward to celebrating with you this wonderful occasion.

Sincerely,

Interim President, Lynn Babington, PhD, RN

Seventy-five years ago [Fairfield University] was intended as a University for men... now, most of our students are women, and indeed, you have before you the first woman — and the first lay person — to have ever served in the Office of the President. It’s an exciting world, an evolving society that is creating whole new vistas of opportunity, and Fairfield graduates — now as ever — will find their place in it.

Interim University President Lynn Babington, PhD, RN, in her speech addressing the 2017 Commencement ceremonies
External shot of Commencement on Bellarmine Lawn, behind Bellarmine Hall
67th Commencement Ceremonies

During Fairfield University's 67th Commencement exercises on Sunday, May 21, the Class of 1951 — the University’s very first class — was honored as part of the University’s ongoing 75th Anniversary celebrations.

Read the 67th Commencement Recap on FairfieldNews

2016 Commencement

65th Commencement Weekend
Sunday, May 22, 2016

Baccalaureate Mass

Saturday May 21, 2016 | 4 p.m.
All baccalaureate, master's and doctoral graduates and their families and friends are invited to join as part of the University community for the Baccalaureate Mass in Alumni Hall.


Undergraduate Ceremony

Bellarmine Lawn | 9:30 a.m.

Keynote Speaker: Cindi Bigelow, CEO of Bigelow Tea

Graduate Ceremony

Bellarmine Lawn | 3 p.m.

Keynote Speaker: Rev. Agbonkhianmeghe E. Orobator, S.J., the principal and president of the Jesuit School of Theology and Institute of Peace Studies and International Relations in Nairobi, Kenya

Undergraduate Commencement Recording

Watch the Reording of Commencement

Graduate Commencement Recording

Watch the Reording of Commencement

Videos

Congratulations Class of 2016! video thumbnail

Congratulations Class of 2016!

Q&A with the Class of 2016 video thumbnail

Q&A with the Class of 2016


President's Address

Dear Fairfield University degree candidates:

On Sunday, May 22, 2016, Fairfield University will hold its Commencement exercises. The ceremony for undergraduates will be at 9:30 a.m. and the graduate ceremony at 3 p.m. - both ceremonies will be held on Bellarmine Lawn. For the University, this marks a milestone in that it will be the institution's 66th commencement. More importantly, for all of you, this is a moment to acknowledge years of hard work and sacrifice along with what has, hopefully, been a time of transformation.

This Commencement is an important ending and an exciting new beginning. Speaking on behalf of our Board of Trustees, faculty and staff, I hope that your educational experience at Fairfield has led you to know yourself better and that you have developed a passion for lifelong learning. For it is only through that passion that you will continue to learn, question and analyze - all hallmarks of an individual who is especially equipped to contribute to the social and economic well-being of their communities and the world.

In addition to our Commencement ceremonies on Sunday, May 22, I invite you to join our community for the Baccalaureate Mass that will be held in Alumni Hall at 4 p.m. on Saturday, May 21. Prior to Commencement weekend, look forward to a number of celebratory activities during Senior Week for our undergraduate students as well as special school-based events for both undergraduates and graduates that will offer opportunities to further engage with faculty and classmates prior to the next phase of your Fairfield experience when you become alumni of this special and distinctive institution.

As we move towards the middle of this academic year, I, as President, want to take this opportunity to congratulate you on your successful accomplishments. All of us at Fairfield University look forward to celebrating with you this wonderful occasion.

Sincerely,

Jeffrey Von Arx, S.J.


We have asked you to discern that along with the privilege of education comes the obligation to be of service to those who need what you have to give. That is what a Jesuit education is all about. There is so much good work that needs to be done in the world. I have every confidence you will find your place in it.

Rev. Jeffrey Von Arx, S.J., in his closing address of the Commencement ceremonies
An excited student receives her degree at Fairfield University's 66th commencement ceremonies on Sunday, May 22; Credit: Gwen Pellegrino
66th Commencement Ceremonies

On the morning of Sunday, May 22, the weather for Fairfield University's 66th annual graduation ceremonies was intimidating, much like the class of 2016's first day on campus. But the clouds parted and the sun shone as they received their degrees and began their bright future post-Fairfield.

Read the 66th Commencement Recap on FairfieldNews

2015 Commencement

65th Commencement Weekend
Sunday, May 17, 2015

Baccalaureate Mass

Saturday May 16, 2015 | 4 p.m.
All baccalaureate, master's and doctoral graduates and their families and friends are invited to join as part of the University community for the Baccalaureate Mass in Alumni Hall.


Undergraduate Ceremony

Bellarmine Lawn | 9:30 a.m.

Keynote Speaker: Rev. James Martin, S.J.

Read Rev. Martin's Speech

Valedictory Speaker: Margaret Siu ’15, Biochemistry Major

Graduate Ceremony

Bellarmine Lawn | 3 p.m.

Keynote Speaker: Rev. Greg Boyle

Watch Rev. Boyle's Speech

Undergraduate Commencement Recording

Watch the Reording of Commencement

Graduate Commencement Recording

Watch the Reording of Commencement

Advice to the Class of 2015


President's Address

Dear Fairfield University degree candidates:

On Sunday, May 17, 2015, Fairfield University will hold its Commencement exercises. The ceremony for undergraduates will be at 9:30 a.m. and the graduate ceremony at 3 p.m. - both ceremonies will be held on Bellarmine Lawn. For the University, this marks a milestone in that it will be the institution's 65th commencement. More importantly, for all of you, this is a moment to acknowledge years of hard work and sacrifice along with what has, hopefully, been a time of transformation.

This Commencement is an important ending and an exciting new beginning. Speaking on behalf of our Board of Trustees, faculty and staff, I hope that your educational experience at Fairfield has led you to know yourself better and that you have developed a passion for lifelong learning. For it is only through that passion that you will continue to learn, question and analyze - all hallmarks of an individual who is especially equipped to contribute to the social and economic well-being of their communities and the world.

In addition to our Commencement ceremonies on Sunday, May 17, I invite you to join our community for the Baccalaureate Mass that will be held in Alumni Hall at 4 p.m. on Saturday, May 16. Prior to Commencement weekend, look forward to a number of celebratory activities during Senior Week for our undergraduate students as well as special school-based events for both undergraduates and graduates that will offer opportunities to further engage with faculty and classmates prior to the next phase of your Fairfield experience when you become alumni of this special and distinctive institution.

As we move towards the middle of this academic year, I, as President, want to take this opportunity to congratulate you on your successful accomplishments. All of us at Fairfield University look forward to celebrating with you this wonderful occasion.

Sincerely,

Jeffrey Von Arx, S.J.

External beauty shot of Bellarmine Hall
65th Commencement Ceremonies

On Sunday, May 17, Fairfield University celebrated its 65th Commencement in front of families and friends on the sprawling lawn of Bellarmine Hall.

Read the 65th Commencement Recap on FairfieldNews

2014 Commencement

64th Commencement Weekend
Sunday, May 18, 2014

Baccalaureate Mass

Saturday May 17, 2014 | 4 p.m.
All baccalaureate, master's and doctoral graduates and their families and friends are invited to join as part of the University community for the Baccalaureate Mass in Alumni Hall.


Undergraduate Ceremony

Bellarmine Lawn | 9:30 a.m.

Keynote Speaker: Sharon M. K. Kugler, University Chaplain, Yale University

Valedictory Speaker: Kevin James Greener ’14, Physics Major

Graduate Ceremony

Bellarmine Lawn | 3 p.m.

Keynote Speaker: Mary Ann Christopher ’79, MSN, RN, FAAN, president and CEO of the Visiting Nurse Service of New York

Valedictory Speaker: Paul Gerard Scheufele


President's Address

Dear Fairfield University degree candidates:

On Sunday, May 18, 2014, Fairfield University will hold its Commencement exercises. The ceremony for undergraduates will be at 9:30 a.m. and the graduate ceremony at 3 p.m. - both ceremonies will be held on Bellarmine Lawn. For the University, this marks a milestone in that it will be the institution's 64th commencement. More importantly, for all of you, this is a moment to acknowledge years of hard work and sacrifice along with what has, hopefully, been a time of transformation.

This Commencement is an important ending and an exciting new beginning. Speaking on behalf of our Board of Trustees, faculty and staff, I hope that your educational experience at Fairfield has led you to know yourself better and that you have developed a passion for lifelong learning. For it is only through that passion that you will continue to learn, question and analyze - all hallmarks of an individual who is especially equipped to contribute to the social and economic well-being of their communities and the world.

In addition to our Commencement ceremonies on Sunday, May 18, I invite you to join our community for the Baccalaureate Mass that will be held in Alumni Hall at 4 p.m. on Saturday, May 17. Prior to Commencement weekend, look forward to a number of celebratory activities during Senior Week for our undergraduate students as well as special school-based events for both undergraduates and graduates that will offer opportunities to further engage with faculty and classmates prior to the next phase of your Fairfield experience when you become alumni of this special and distinctive institution.

As we move towards the middle of this academic year, I, as President, want to take this opportunity to congratulate you on your successful accomplishments. All of us at Fairfield University look forward to celebrating with you this wonderful occasion.

Sincerely,

Jeffrey Von Arx, S.J.


It wasn’t that I didn’t care to ask the big questions; it was that I didn’t have the time to explore the answers. The overwhelming question for me for the past 25 years was simple: How do I provide for my family the best way that I can? Now I was experiencing what it was like to think about Plato and Plotinus, Augustine, and Aquinas, with peers who were younger than my sons. Life in the classroom with smart young students was enriching – this time for the soul.

Paul Gerard Scheufele, in his valedictory speech addressing the Graduate Class of 2014
Fairfield University Stag graduates holding their diploma holders while posing and smiling for the camera
64th Commencement Ceremonies

At the morning ceremony for undergraduate students, the University awarded 902 diplomas, while afternoon commencement for graduate students featured the awarding of 30 doctor of nursing practice degrees, 375 master’s degrees, and 14 certificates of advanced study.

Read the 64th Commencement Recap on FairfieldNews

2013 Commencement

63rd Commencement Weekend
Sunday, May 19, 2013

Baccalaureate Mass

Saturday May 18, 2013 | 4 p.m.
All baccalaureate, master's and doctoral graduates and their families and friends are invited to join as part of the University community for the Baccalaureate Mass in Alumni Hall.


Undergraduate Ceremony

Bellarmine Lawn | 9:30 a.m.

Keynote Speaker: Rev. Michael J. Garanzini, S.J., president of Loyola University Chicago and the General Secretary for Higher Education for the Society of Jesus

Read Rev. Garanzini's Speech

Valedictory Speaker: Kevin Reda ’13, Poltiics & International Studies Double Major

Read Kevin's Speech

Graduate Ceremony

Bellarmine Lawn | 3 p.m.

Keynote Speaker: Patrick W. Kelley ’76, P’12, M.D., DrPH, director of the Boards of Global Health and African Science Academy Development at the U.S. National Academies

Read Patrick Kelley's Speech

Valedictory Speaker: Erin Radocchia

Read Erin's Speech

Press Releases

Fairfield University awards 861 diplomas at 63nd annual undergraduate commencement exercises
Read the Full Press Release
More than 400 receive degrees at 63nd Fairfield University Graduate Commencement
Read the Full Press Release

President's Address

Dear Fairfield University degree candidates:

On Sunday, May 19, 2013, Fairfield University will hold its Commencement exercises. The ceremony for undergraduates will be at 9:30 a.m. and the graduate ceremony at 3 p.m. - both ceremonies will be held on Bellarmine Lawn. For the University, this marks a milestone in that it will be the institution's 63rd commencement. More importantly, for all of you, this is a moment to acknowledge years of hard work and sacrifice along with what has, hopefully, been a time of transformation.

This Commencement is an important ending and an exciting new beginning. Speaking on behalf of our Board of Trustees, faculty and staff, I hope that your educational experience at Fairfield has led you to know yourself better and that you have developed a passion for lifelong learning. For it is only through that passion that you will continue to learn, question and analyze - all hallmarks of an individual who is especially equipped to contribute to the social and economic well-being of their communities and the world.

In addition to our Commencement ceremonies on Sunday, May 19, I invite you to join our community for the Baccalaureate Mass that will be held in Alumni Hall at 4 p.m. on Saturday, May 18. Prior to Commencement weekend, look forward to a number of celebratory activities during Senior Week for our undergraduate students as well as special school-based events for both undergraduates and graduates that will offer opportunities to further engage with faculty and classmates prior to the next phase of your Fairfield experience when you become alumni of this special and distinctive institution.

As we move towards the middle of this academic year, I, as President, want to take this opportunity to congratulate you on your successful accomplishments. All of us at Fairfield University look forward to celebrating with you this wonderful occasion.

Sincerely,

Jeffrey Von Arx, S.J.


The educated, especially at the professional level, like yourselves, are parties to a social contract. Empowered professionals, such as each of you, in recognition of their status, assume an obligation to use their position and capabilities to lead the creation of more equitable societies where health, education, security and opportunity are more accessible to all, where the treasury of the talents God has given to each of us, can be fully at the service of all of us.

Patrick W. Kelley '76, P'12, M.D., DrPH, in his keynote speech addressing the Graduate Class of 2013
Fairfield University Stag graduate holding an umbrella at a rainy Commencement ceremony amongst fellow graduates
63rd Commencement Ceremonies

On a drizzly day that didn’t dampen anyone’s spirits, Fairfield University awarded a total of 1,279 degrees Sunday, May 19, 2013, including 858 bachelor's degrees, 396 master's degrees, 19 certificates of advanced study, three Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degrees, and three associate's degrees.

Read the 63rd Commencement Recap on FairfieldNews

2012 Commencement

62nd Commencement Weekend
Sunday, May 20, 2012

Baccalaureate Mass

Saturday May 19, 2012 | 4 p.m.
All baccalaureate, master's and doctoral graduates and their families and friends are invited to join as part of the University community for the Baccalaureate Mass in Alumni Hall.


Undergraduate Ceremony

Bellarmine Lawn | 9:30 a.m.

Keynote Speaker: Joseph P. Russoniello ’63

Read Joseph Russoniello's Speech

Valedictory Speaker: Kekoa Taparra

Read Kekoa's Speech

Graduate Ceremony

Bellarmine Lawn | 3 p.m.

Graduate Speakers: Suzanne and Bob Wright

Read Suzanne and Bob's Speech

Valedictory Speaker: Jenna Allegretto

Read Jenna Allegretto's Speech

Press Release

More than 400 receive degrees at 63nd Fairfield University Graduate Commencement
Read the Full Press Release

President's Address

Dear Fairfield University degree candidates:

On Sunday, May 20, 2012, Fairfield University will hold its Commencement exercises. The ceremony for undergraduates will be at 9:30 a.m. and the graduate ceremony at 3 p.m. - both ceremonies will be held on Bellarmine Lawn. For the University, this marks a milestone in that it will be the institution's 62nd commencement. More importantly, for all of you, this is a moment to acknowledge years of hard work and sacrifice along with what has, hopefully, been a time of transformation.

This Commencement is an important ending and an exciting new beginning. Speaking on behalf of our Board of Trustees, faculty and staff, I hope that your educational experience at Fairfield has led you to know yourself better and that you have developed a passion for lifelong learning. For it is only through that passion that you will continue to learn, question and analyze - all hallmarks of an individual who is especially equipped to contribute to the social and economic well-being of their communities and the world.

In addition to our Commencement ceremonies on Sunday, May 20, I invite you to join our community for the Baccalaureate Mass that will be held in Alumni Hall at 4 p.m. on Saturday, May 19. Prior to Commencement weekend, look forward to a number of celebratory activities during Senior Week for our undergraduate students as well as special school-based events for both undergraduates and graduates that will offer opportunities to further engage with faculty and classmates prior to the next phase of your Fairfield experience when you become alumni of this special and distinctive institution.

As we move towards the middle of this academic year, I, as President, want to take this opportunity to congratulate you on your successful accomplishments. All of us at Fairfield University look forward to celebrating with you this wonderful occasion.

Sincerely,

Jeffrey Von Arx, S.J.

2011 Commencement

61st Commencement Weekend
Sunday, May 22, 2011

Baccalaureate Mass

Saturday May 21, 2011 | 4 p.m.
All baccalaureate, master's and doctoral graduates and their families and friends are invited to join as part of the University community for the Baccalaureate Mass in Alumni Hall.


Undergraduate Ceremony

Bellarmine Lawn | 9:30 a.m.

Keynote Speaker: Honorable Maryanne Trump Barry

Read Honorable Maryanne Trump Barry's Speech

Valedictory Speaker: Stephen Bottari, Jr. ’11, Communication & Politics Double Major

Read Stephen's Speech

Graduate Ceremony

Bellarmine Lawn | 3 p.m.

Keynote Speaker: Rear Admiral Brian P. Monahan

Read Admiral Monahan's Speech

Valedictory Speaker: Jessica Viner ’11

Read Jessica's Speech

Press Releases

Distinguished Judge and Navy Admiral named 2011 commencement speakers at Fairfield University
Read the Full Press Release
Fairfield University's honorary degree recipients to be recognized at 61st commencement ceremony
Read the Full Press Release
Fairfield University awards 858 diplomas at 61st annual commencement for undergraduates
Read the Full Press Release
405 graduate students receive master's degrees during cap-and-gown ceremony at Fairfield University
Read the Full Press Release

President's Address

Dear Fairfield University degree candidates:

On Sunday, May 22, 2011, Fairfield University will hold its Commencement exercises. The ceremony for undergraduates will be at 9:30 a.m. and the graduate ceremony at 3 p.m. - both ceremonies will be held on Bellarmine Lawn. For the University, this marks a milestone in that it will be the institution's 61st commencement. More importantly, for all of you, this is a moment to acknowledge years of hard work and sacrifice along with what has, hopefully, been a time of transformation.

This Commencement is an important ending and an exciting new beginning. Speaking on behalf of our Board of Trustees, faculty and staff, I hope that your educational experience at Fairfield has led you to know yourself better and that you have developed a passion for lifelong learning. For it is only through that passion that you will continue to learn, question and analyze - all hallmarks of an individual who is especially equipped to contribute to the social and economic well-being of their communities and the world.

In addition to our Commencement ceremonies on Sunday, May 20, I invite you to join our community for the Baccalaureate Mass that will be held in Alumni Hall at 4 p.m. on Saturday, May 19. Prior to Commencement weekend, look forward to a number of celebratory activities during Senior Week for our undergraduate students as well as special school-based events for both undergraduates and graduates that will offer opportunities to further engage with faculty and classmates prior to the next phase of your Fairfield experience when you become alumni of this special and distinctive institution.

As we move towards the middle of this academic year, I, as President, want to take this opportunity to congratulate you on your successful accomplishments. All of us at Fairfield University look forward to celebrating with you this wonderful occasion.

Sincerely,

Jeffrey Von Arx, S.J.

2010 Commencement

60th Commencement Weekend
Sunday, May 23, 2010

Baccalaureate Mass

Saturday May 22, 2010 | 4 p.m.
All baccalaureate, master's and doctoral graduates and their families and friends are invited to join as part of the University community for the Baccalaureate Mass in Alumni Hall.


Undergraduate Ceremony

Bellarmine Lawn | 9:30 a.m.

Keynote Speaker: Dr. Katherine N. Lapp ’78

Read Dr. Lapp's Speech

Valedictory Speaker: Christopher Staysniak ’10

Read Christopher's Speech

Graduate Ceremony

Bellarmine Lawn | 3 p.m.

Keynote Speaker: Dr. James L. Abbruzzese ’74

Read Dr. Abbruzzese's Speech

Valedictory Speaker: Beth Lambert

Read Beth's Speech

Press Releases

Fairfield University awards 1,247 diplomas at two separate commencement ceremonies
Read the Full Press Release
Fairfield University awards 320 diplomas at commencement ceremony for graduate students
Read the Full Press Release

2009 Commencement

65th Commencement Weekend
Sunday, May 17, 2009

Baccalaureate Mass

Saturday May 16, 2009 | 4 p.m.
All baccalaureate, master's and doctoral graduates and their families and friends are invited to join as part of the University community for the Baccalaureate Mass in Alumni Hall.


Undergraduate Ceremony

Bellarmine Lawn | 9:30 a.m.

Keynote Speaker: Peter J. Pronovost, MD, PhD

Read Dr. Pronovost's Speech

Valedictory Speaker: Colleen Michelle Gibson

Read Colleen's Speech

Graduate Ceremony

Bellarmine Lawn | 3 p.m.

Keynote Speaker: Dr. Mathy Mezey

Read Dr. Mezey's Speech

Valedictory Speaker: Robert J. Morton, Jr.

Read Robert's Speech

Press Release

Fairfield University student and staff member honored by state of Connecticut with 2009 Community Service Awards
Read the Full Press Release

President's Address

With the growth of Fairfield University as a comprehensive institution of higher education and the subsequent increase in the number of graduate programs and students, efforts are underway to find ways to acknowledge this important dimension of Fairfield's mission appropriately. Increasing the visibility of our graduate programs, as well as the talented faculty and students associated with them, is among those initiatives.

Indeed, our strategic vision has as one of its goals the Integration of Jesuit Values in Graduate and Professional Education. The initiatives we have developed as part of the implementation process have called for us to build a stronger graduate student community, broaden the reach of our graduate education in the region, and enhance the external visibility and presence of the graduate programs.

Considering this, and following a recommendation by the University's Commencement Committee, the University will enhance its commencement celebrations this year by holding a separate ceremony for graduate students. The undergraduate ceremony will be held at 9:30 a.m., Sunday, May 17, followed by commencement exercises for our graduate programs at 3 p.m., also on Sunday, May 17.

As there are a number of celebratory events during senior week for our undergraduate students, there will be the opportunity of graduate students to engage with faculty and their classmates during special school-based receptions. Further details and implementation information about the change will be announced in the coming weeks.

In the meantime, it's appropriate to acknowledge that this additional ceremony confirms the success Fairfield University has experienced in recent years in achieving our strategic goals, and is a tribute to all the work that we have done as we continue to meet the graduate education needs of our region.

Sincerely,

Jeffrey Von Arx, S.J.

Read Fr. von Arx's Undergraduate President's Remarks Read Fr. von Arx's Graduate President's Remarks