Congratulations, Graduates!

On May 24, 2026, Wesleyan community members from around the world gathered together to honor the indomitable graduating Class of 2026. View a recording of the 194th Commencement Ceremony below. We are so proud of you.
Go Wes graduates!

Rewatch the 2026 Commencement ceremony.

(Procession begins 16 minutes in.) 

 

See the list of graduate names.

Commencement Info

Find photos, videos, and stories celebrating the Class of 2026.

Read 'The Connection'

Commencement Speakers

Chris Murphy

Chris Murphy, the junior United States senator for Connecticut, has dedicated his career to public service as an advocate for Connecticut families. Murphy has been a leading voice in the Senate, fighting for affordable health care, sensible gun laws, a forward-looking foreign policy, and a democracy and economy that serves working people.

READ MURPHY'S FULL BIO Read Connection article with full transcript

Dr. David M. Carlisle ’76

Dr. David M. Carlisle has served as the president and chief executive officer of Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science in the Watts-Willowbrook area of Los Angeles County since 2011. Carlisle graduated from Wesleyan University, majoring in chemistry. He then earned his MD from Brown University and his MPH and his PhD in Health Services Research from the UCLA Fielding School of Public Health.

READ CARLISLE'S FULL BIO Read Connection article with full transcript

Karen Freedman ’75, P’05

Karen Freedman is the founder and President of Lawyers For Children. Since graduating law school, Freedman has dedicated her legal career to serving children and young adults. Lawyers For Children opened its doors 40 years ago, and since that time has represented over 100,000 children and young adults.

READ FREEDMAN'S FULL BIO Read Connection article with full transcript

Michael S. Roth '78

Michael S. Roth '78 became the 16th president of Wesleyan University on July 1, 2007. A professor in history and the humanities, he continues to teach undergraduate courses and is known as a historian, curator, author, and public advocate for liberal education.

Read the President's full bio Read Connection article with full transcript

Thomas Lyons '26

Senior Class Speaker, Class of 2026

Read Connection article with full transcript