Ceremony and Speakers

Bryant University’s Commencement Weekend brings together graduates, families, faculty, alumni, and friends to celebrate achievement, reflection, and new beginnings. Explore ceremony traditions, speakers, schedules, and replay information from Commencement Weekend.

Bryant University’s iconic wrought iron archway bridges our past and present. Gifted by the Class of 1968 to Bryant’s original Providence campus and relocated to Smithfield in 1971, it remains one of our most enduring symbols.

Each year, graduating students walk beneath the archway on their way to Commencement. Tradition holds that passing through it before Commencement brings bad luck — inspiring the Class of 1987 to donate the brick path around it to help students avoid the superstition.

In 2008, the archway was refurbished and its walkways expanded through the generosity of the Class of 2008.