Ceremony and Speakers

Bryant University’s Commencement Weekend brings together graduates, families, faculty, and community to celebrate achievement, purpose, and lifelong learning. Explore the Undergraduate and Graduate Commencement ceremonies — including dates, times, and livestream access — plus details on this year’s keynote speakers and honorary degree recipients.

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.