2023 Cornell College Commencement

Cornell College’s 165th Commencement ceremony celebrated the Class of 2023—and one special member of the Class of 1943—on Mother’s Day Sunday, May 14, in the Small Athletic and Wellness Center arena. 

Watch Commencement 2023

Fred Taylor ’43 left campus in February of his senior year to enlist in the Army Air Corps Reserve for World War II. Although he completed his degree, he missed his graduation ceremony. Eighty years later, Taylor led the Class of 2023 in turning their tassels at Commencement, receiving his diploma in person at age 101.

Makayla Kelleher delivered the Class of ’23 senior speech. Kelleher is past president of Student Senate and was an R.A. and a Cornell Fellow. 

The class chose Art History Professor Christina Penn-Goetsch as its faculty speaker. She spoke on “Facing Goliath: Michelangelo's David,” and brought to stage a cardboard cutout of the famous sculpture.

Three faculty received emeritus status after teaching for a combined 85 years: Professors of Biology Barbara Christie-Pope and Craig Tepper, and Professor of English Michelle Mouton. 

An inter-spiritual Baccalaureate ceremony was held on May 13 in Kimmel Theatre. A livestream of this ceremony is still available to view. This Cornell tradition features playful and meaningful words of gratitude by graduating seniors on behalf of their faculty, family, staff, and friends; readings by members of the Class of 2023; and wisdom for the life journey which includes a message by College Chaplain Melea White. 

Watch 2023's Baccalaureate Service

View Commencement 2023 photography