Hobart and William Smith Colleges

President Mark D. Gearan introduces decorated air combat veteran and former HWS Director of Alumni Relations Lt. Col. John E. Norvell ’66, P’99, P’02 as he receives his honorary degree.

Best-selling author, screenwriter and producer Jessica Knoll ’06 receives her honorary degree hood from Professor of Sociology Jack Harris P’02, P’06.

A biochemistry major’s decorated mortarboard says, “Coming to a lab near you.”

Peace Corps Director Carol Spahn urges students to take intentional action to create “authentic personal, curious, human connections made across difference” during her Commencement address.

Family and friends watch the ceremony.

Students gather for a photo in the Vandervort Room during robing.

As is tradition, students jump in Seneca Lake after watching the sunrise.

A Commencement morning tradition, seniors gather at the Bozzuto Boathouse to watch the sunrise.

During his valedictory address, President Mark D. Gearan called upon the graduates to lead a life of consequence by living a life committed to purpose, meaning and accomplishment.

Professors of Sociology Wes Perkins and Jack Harris lead the faculty procession. They are applauded by the Class of 2024.

Students pause for a photo while processing to the Quad.

Under the direction of Associate Professor of Music Mark Olivieri, members of the Jazz Ensemble perform at the start of Commencement. They include: Felix Beltre ’23, Luke Ward ’26, Ivan Malcolm ’23 and Professor of Biology Mark Deutschlander.

Students walk to class on Monday.

While on a tour of campus, students from Lithuania hosted by Geneva Rotary join a dance class taught by Associate Professor of Dance Kelly Johnson.

Faculty and staff take a photo after a First Aid and CPR Training class at the Hydrant Hose Fire Department.

Natalie Sandoval ’25 and Levi Holguin ’25 work on an independent research project "Equity in Paleontology" that they are conducting with Professor of Geoscience Nan Crystal Arens.