A look back on BU commencements | Alumni & Friends

Posted May 2023

As Boston University gears up for the 150th All-University Commencement on Sunday, May 21, families, friends and graduates alike excitedly await photos from the big day. A big part of what makes each commencement ceremony special is remembering just how many Terriers have donned their red caps and gowns on Nickerson Field before, and all the incredible things they’ve done since. In the spirit of celebration and nostalgia, join us as we take a trip down memory lane through photos of BU’s past commencement ceremonies.

1927 Commencement at Boston Arena (Photo by Boston University Photography)

1961 Commencement in Boston Garden (Photo by Boston University Photography)

First commencement on Nickerson Field – May 28,1967 (Photo by Boston University Photography)

Class of 1969: Boston University’s 100th class (Photo by Boston University Photography)

US Senator Edward. M Kennedy (Hon.’70) delivering the Commencement Keynote Address – May 20, 1979 (Photo by Boston University Photography)

A rain-soaked commencement – May 18, 1980 (Photo by Boston University Photography)

Former first lady Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis (left), with her sister, Lee Radziwill, whose son, Anthony Radziwill (COM’82), was graduating – May 16, 1982 (Photo by Boston University Photography)

May 16, 1982 (Photo by Boston University Photography)

May 15, 1983 (Photo by Boston University Photography)

May 13, 1984 (Photo by Boston University Photography)

May 15, 1988 (Photo by Boston University Photography)

Nickerson Field – May 16, 1993 (Photo by Boston University Photography)

2009 Commencement (Photo by Boston University Photography)

Class of 1970 celebrating their overdue graduation at Commencement 2010

2014 Commencement (Photos by GradImages)

2021 Commencement (Photos by GradImages)

Proud to graduate at 2022 Commencement (Photos by GradImages)