219th Commencement Ceremony

The Commencement Ceremony is Hunter’s culminating event held at the conclusion of both the Fall and Spring semesters to celebrate those students who are candidates for official graduation.

Former Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton will deliver the commencement address on May 29, at Madison Square Garden. Secretary Clinton will also receive the inaugural Eleanor Roosevelt Distinguished Leadership Award, recognizing her remarkable achievements in public service.

“We are honored and thrilled that Secretary Clinton will share her thoughts and insights with our graduating students and their families and friends,” said Hunter College President Jennifer J. Raab. “For more than a generation, she has been at the forefront of progressive change, including change for women, which is an essential part of Hunter’s history. I’m confident she will be a messenger of inspiration and hope for our students.”

Also delivering remarks on behalf of Hunter’s graduate students will be Isabella Rossellini, the Golden Globe Award-winning actress-filmmaker, author, philanthropist, and model, who herself will be receiving a master’s degree in Animal Behavior and Conservation from Hunter College.

The Eleanor Roosevelt Distinguished Leadership Award was created to celebrate those who reflect Eleanor Roosevelt’s spirit as a champion for human rights and an advocate for the underrepresented. The award will be presented periodically to honor an outstanding leader who represents the progression of values espoused by Roosevelt.

“I can think of no more deserving person to inaugurate this important award reflecting the values of Eleanor Roosevelt than Secretary Clinton, who will set an extraordinarily high bar for future recipients,” said President Raab.

This will be the first year in decades that Hunter College will hold commencement at Madison Square Garden, which offers more space and featured amenities to better accommodate students, families, and friends. Approximately 4,000 Hunter College students will receive undergraduate, graduate, or post-doctoral degrees, with most expected to attend commencement.