Each year, Grinnell College’s graduating class has the opportunity to recognize individuals who have profoundly shaped their student experience—not just in the classroom, but in moments of everyday care, kindness, and connection. For the Class of 2025, four exceptional individuals have been named Honorary Class Members: Peggy Elliott, Renee Bourgeois Parsons, David Stanley, and Jani Springer.

Grinnell College honored the Class of 2025 with a joyful and heartfelt Commencement ceremony, held indoors for the first time since 1996 due to forecasted storms. This photo essay captures the energy and emotion as over 400 graduates from 46 states and 20 countries marked the end of their Grinnell journeys and the start of new chapters ahead.

Surrounded by faculty, staff, family, and friends, over 400 graduates walked across the stage, symbolizing the culmination of their academic journeys and the beginning of new chapters ahead.

In light of tomorrow’s forecast, we are moving the Commencement ceremony indoors to the north side of the Fieldhouse within the Bear Recreation and Athletic Center.

Four exceptional individuals will be awarded honorary degrees in recognition of the significant contributions each has made to their fields of expertise during Grinnell College’s 2025 Commencement ceremony to be held on May 19, 2025.

hazel batrezchavez ’17, who will present the Scholars’ Convocation on Nov. 14, talks about the importance of alumni mentorship.

The ceremony marked the culmination of hard work, dedication, and academic achievement by the graduates. 332 accomplished graduates marked the class of 2024's milestone.  

*Please note the ceremony will now begin at 10:30 a.m. due to the weather.

From the graduating class of Edith Renfrow Smith in 1937 to the vibrant ceremonies of today, each year’s Commencement has been a special intersection of achievement, reflection, and aspiration.

During the 2024 Commencement ceremony, the College will bestow honorary degrees upon distinguished scholars in law, science, and humanities.