Baccalaureate Service
Congratulations to the Class of 2021! University Commencement will be webcast live on Friday, April 30, at 10:30 a.m. (EDT). For additional information or questions related to Class Day ceremonies, contact your individual school. Visit the Graduating Students and Announcements pages for the most current updates.
The Baccalaureate Service is a multifaith service celebrating the completion of each undergraduate's academic career from Columbia College, The Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science, the School of General Studies, and Barnard College.
Service highlights include hymns, musical selections, readings, reflections, and speeches by students. All undergraduate degree candidates and their guests are invited to tune in virtually.
Ceremony Details
Sunday, April 25, 2021, at 10:00 a.m. (EDT), Virtual Event.
Baccalaureate 2021 Participants
Yasmine Ayman
CC
Baha'i
Khadija Baldeh
GS
Muslim
Mikyle Hassanali
CC
Muslim
Juliette Jung
CC
Christian
Yaira Kobrin-Wiener
CC
Jewish
Hariti Patel
Barnard
Hindu
Lauren Pham
Barnard
Catholic
Matthew Rosenberg
SEAS
Jewish
Ria Sawhney
Barnard
Sikh
Gauri Talwar
Barnard
Sikh
History
The Baccalaureate Service is believed to have originated at Oxford University in 1432 when each bachelor was required to deliver a sermon in Latin as part of his academic exercise. This historical British practice continued with the earliest universities in this country, which were founded primarily to educate ministers. Columbia University began this tradition in 1897 and the ceremony continues today as an interfaith, intercultural service celebrating each undergraduate's academic career.
Accessibility
Columbia University is committed to ensuring that all Commencement activities are accessible to all graduates and guests. If you need any accommodations, please contact Disability Services.
Learn more about the Office of Religious Life and the Baccalaureate Service.