Convocation is a cherished annual tradition in which we warmly welcome admitted degree candidates, providing an understanding of the spirit, traditions, values, and rich history of Harvard Extension School.
This is truly a unique opportunity to gather together as a community, meet fellow degree candidates, and celebrate your academic journey with pomp and circumstance.
If you’ll be on campus for Convocation, we invite you to join us for additional events surrounding your special day.
Thursday, Sept. 25
Friday, Sept. 26
Saturday, Sept. 27
Thursday, Sept. 25
Early Check-In
Time: 1–5 p.m.
Location: 51 Brattle St., Cambridge, MA 02138
Degree candidates will receive a lanyard to wear during HES Convocation. Please note: Same-day lanyard pick-up will be available at Memorial Church.
Special Campus Tours
Time: Scheduled between 1 and 4 p.m.
If you’re attending Convocation, consider arriving early to take part in exclusive tours of some of Harvard’s most iconic locations. Each tour has limited space, with capacities ranging from 15 to 22 participants. We encourage early sign-up, as these tours will fill quickly.
Highlights include:
- Widener Library
- President John F. Kennedy’s meticulously preserved dorm room
- Memorial Church
- Special art and museum collections
- Guided campus tours
- Faculty science lab tours
- …and more!
Dean’s Distinguished Lecture
Time: 6 p.m.
Location: Sanders Theatre, 45 Quincy Street, Cambridge, MA 0213
In celebration of the Division of Continuing Education’s 50th anniversary, we’re excited to launch the inaugural Dean’s Distinguished Lecture — a new annual event that will be part of Convocation week. Each year, this lecture will feature dynamic speakers from a range of fields, sharing their insights with our community.
Friday, Sept. 26
Convocation Check-In
Time: 9:30 a.m.
Location: Memorial Church, Harvard Yard, 1 Harvard Yard, Cambridge, MA 02138
Degree Candidate Group Photo
Time: 10:30 a.m.
Location: Steps of Memorial Church, 1 Harvard Yard, Cambridge, MA 02138
Convocation Ceremony
Time: 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Location: Memorial Church, Harvard Yard, 1 Harvard Yard, Cambridge, MA 02138
Reception
Time: 12–2 p.m.
Location: Science Center Plaza Tent (located next to the Science Center), 1 Oxford St., Cambridge, MA 02138
Saturday, Sept. 27
HESA Football Game: Harvard vs Brown
Time: Meet at 5:15 p.m., kickoff at 6 p.m.
Location: Harvard Stadium, 65 N Harvard St, Boston, MA 02163
Join the Harvard Extension Student Association (HESA) for the Harvard vs. Brown football game on Friday, September 27.
Meet fellow Harvard Extension students at 5:15 p.m. before the 6 p.m. kickoff at Harvard Stadium, where HESA has reserved a special #HESProud section. Discounted tickets are available for $15 (plus a $3 fee).
