We look forward to honoring our graduates on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 11:00 AM on the Great Lawn along the shore of Akwesasne Lake.
Commencement will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, May 9, 2026, on the Great Lawn. Tickets are not required for admission, and there is no limitation on the number of guests who may attend.
Since commencement will be held outside, we strongly encourage graduates and their guests to bring warm layers, rain gear, and to wear supportive footwear. The Adirondacks in May can be cool with typical morning temperatures around 45–58°F.
Please review the below information for more specifics about the ceremony.
Event Actions
Order of Ceremony
Starting at 11:00 AM, The order of ceremony will be as follows:
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Processional
Faculty, Platform Party, and Graduates
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Welcome and Opening Remarks
Dr. Daniel Kelting, President
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Student Address
Connor Howell & Cora Mance, Class of 2026
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Commencement Address
Delivered by David Kanietakeron Fadden, a respected Akwesasne Mohawk artist, storyteller, and Director of the Six Nations Iroquois Cultural Center.
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Presentation of Awards and Recognitions
Honorary Degrees, Student Government Association Awards, Special Awards, and Faculty Emeritus Recognitions.
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Conferral of Degrees and Certificates
Dr. Daniel Kelting, President, Mark Dzwonczyk, Chair, and Dr. Brett McLeod, Dean of Faculty
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Alumni Induction
Daniel Richards, Alumni Association President
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Closing of Ceremonies and Recessional
Dr. Daniel Kelting
Commencement Details
- Clear Financial Obligations: Any financial obligations that are still outstanding prior to graduation need to be cleared with the Student Accounts Office prior to graduation.
- Update Mailing Information: Please notify the Alumni Office with any necessary mailing updates by June 15. Because the final grades are not due until the Monday, May 11, 2026, diplomas will not be distributed at the ceremony and will be mailed afterwards.
- Pick Up Regalia: Paul Smith’s College provides regalia to graduates free of charge. The Alumni Office will reach out with details about pick up dates, times, and locations in April.
Students participating in the Spring 2026 ceremony should arrive at Pickett Hall for lineup promptly at 10 a.m. wearing their cap and gown.
For those participating students that have not picked up their cap and gown, they will be available in Pickett Hall Room 111. Faculty and Staff members will be available to assist students with regalia as needed.
Guests should arrive on campus no later than 10 a.m. and park in Lot #1 (located near the Facilities building). Campus Safety Staff Members will assist with directing traffic. Shuttles will be provided between Lot 1 and the Great Lawn. Lot #17 (Library & Student Center lot) is reserved for individuals requiring accessible parking spaces. Please reference the campus parking map for details.
- Pets are not permitted. Service dogs are allowed but must be leashed.
- Paul Smith’s College is a tobacco-free campus; smoking is not permitted on the campus grounds.
- Mylar balloons are not permitted.
A live stream of the commencement ceremony will be available via the College’s YouTube channel.
For assistance regarding building access, or special seating because of physical limitations, please contact Heather Tuttle at least two weeks in advance, or as early as possible, at (518) 327-6253 or htuttle@paulsmiths.edu.
GradImages will be on campus photographing each graduate and the President of the College as they receive a diploma case. Graduates and parents will receive a proof at a later date for possible purchase. There is no obligation to purchase photographs but do feel free to utilize this service. The company will contact your graduate by email with details.
Meet Your Keynote Speaker
David Kanietakeron Fadden, a respected Akwesasne Mohawk artist and storyteller, will deliver the address.
Questions About Commencement?
Heather Tuttle Peria ’99
Alumni Relations
Alumni Relations Director