The class of 2023 is ready to take their place as the newest alumni of Our Lady's University.

These women and men have worked to acquire the knowledge needed to be a force for good in the world. This page details the celebration and reflection of #ND2023, from the preparations made for this momentous occasion, to the stories of those participating in the ceremonies, to the sights and sounds of the ceremony itself.

Silhouettes of graduates in caps and gowns with the Hesburgh Library in the background.

Commencement Recap

Relive the sights, sounds and memorable moments of the University's 178th commencement ceremony, May 21, 2023.

Juan Manuel Santos giving the commencement address at the 2023 commencement ceremony.

2023 Commencement Address: Juan Manuel Santos

Chairman of the Board Jack Brennan delivers the Laetare Citation to Medalist Sister Rosemary Connelly, RSM.

Commencement 2023: Laetare Medal

Kristen H. Friday delivers the valedictory address at the University of Notre Dame's 178th Commencement Ceremony on May 21, 2023.

Commencement 2023: Valedictory Address

Fr. John I. Jenkins speaking at the podium giving his charge to the class of 2023.

Fr. Jenkins Charge to Class of 2023

Other Videos and Transcripts

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Sights of #ND2023

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A row of candles at the grotto with printed transparent stickers reading: Class of 2023 Seniors pose with Fr. John I. Jenkins during the seniors last visit to the grotto. A close up of the ceremonial mace that is used during commencement ceremonies. Graduate of Grad School smiles and waves after receiving diploma. Graduate School commencement being held in the Notre Dame Stadium. A graduate turning around in her seat to take a photo with her phone. Students standing for mass during ceremony. A United States flag is carried during commencement mass. Ceremonies for Commencement Mass held within the Joyce Center Juan Santos firmly speaking while pointing his finger. From behind, Juan Santos speaking at the podium with his arms out. A graduate's cap design made of letters with sparkles spelling out 'The End' with the interlocked monogram.

Amy Grant dressed in a doctoral robe singing into a microphone.

Amy Grant sings “Breath of Heaven” at commencement

In a special moment, honorary degree recipient and Grammy Award-winning artist Amy Grant sings "Breath of Heaven" at the benediction of the 178th Commencement Ceremony.

Last Visit to the Grotto

On May 18th, seniors made their last visit to the Grotto together as a class. The event marks the end of Senior Week and the beginning of Commencement Weekend.

A crowd of graduating seniors gather around the grotto as Rev. Gerry Olinger, C.S.C. and Rev. John I. Jenkins, C.S.C. lead the prayer service at the Senior Last Visit to the Grotto during Senior Week 2023.

Graduates throwing caps into the air.

Notre Dame to confer 3,200 degrees at 2023 Commencement

The University of Notre Dame will confer 3,200 degrees Saturday and Sunday (May 20 and 21) during Commencement weekend activities.

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A mother and daughter carrying items on moving in day.

What advice would you give your freshman self?

A dark silhouette of the dome and basilica at sunset.

What will you miss most about Notre Dame?

Portrait of Juan Manuel

Commencement Speaker

Nobel Peace Prize recipient and former Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos

News Release

Portrait of Miguel Coste and Kristen Friday

Valedictorian & Salutatorian

Kristen Friday & Miguel Coste

Feature

Portrait of Sister Rosemary Connelly, RSM

Laetare Medalist

Sister Rosemary Connelly, RSM

Feature News Release

An embroidery machine stitching 'Class of 2023' on a blue and gold stole.

Photo Essay

Preparing for Commencement 2023

The entire campus is mobilized each year to welcome graduates and guests for commencement.

Quick Links

A relative of a graduate holding their phone in the air to capture a photo with graduates out of focus in the foreground.

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