Celebrating the Class of 2025: What to know about Centre’s 202nd Commencement

Centre College’s 202nd Commencement Weekend is almost here, and we’ve gathered all the information you need to know, including the schedule of events and featured speakers.
The dynamic group of 324 students preparing to graduate represents 34 states, 11 countries and one U.S. territory, showcasing the broad reach of Centre’s impact.
The most popular majors among the group are economics & finance, business, biology, psychology, behavioral neuroscience, and anthropology/sociology. Of this senior class, 117 were student-athletes, excelling both in the classroom and on the field, winning 26 conference championships during their time at Centre. Many also took the chance to study abroad with 84% of students studying abroad or away at least once during their time at Centre.
Over the past four years, the Class of 2025 has witnessed many transformations across campus, including the announcement and completion of Champions Hall, enhancement of multiple residence halls, construction of the clock tower, and expansion of Olin Hall. Similarly, these graduates have also grown in their knowledge, worldviews and skills.
During their last moments as students, the Class of 2025 will walk across the stage at Andy Frye stadium — another project that underwent renovation during their time at Centre — to officially become alumni.
“The Class of 2025 has showcased admirable resilience, facing every challenge as an opportunity to grow,” said President Milton C. Moreland. “Their transformation into fierce, capable leaders showcases their determination and the power of the Centre experience. Now they’re preparing to head out and share what they’ve learned with the world.”
Whether you will be cheering the graduates on in person or from a distance we’ve got some helpful information to help ensure 2025 Commencement is a joyous one.
Who is speaking at Centre’s 2025 Commencement?
Centre College is honored to welcome Kent Barnett ’02, dean of The Ohio State University Michael E. Moritz College of Law and the J. Gilbert Reese Chair in Contract Law, as the Commencement speaker for the 2025 Commencement.
The Rev. Marcia Mount Shoop ’91 will be the featured speaker at the Baccalaureate services.
Read more about the speakers here.
Where is Commencement taking place?
The Commencement ceremony will be taking place in Andy Frye Stadium. The rain plan will be communicated if weather conditions are not favorable.
Baccalaureate ceremonies will be held in Newlin Hall at the Norton Center for the Arts.
What is the 2025 Commencement schedule?
All times are in ET.
Saturday, May 24
4 p.m.
Baccalaureate Ceremony, Newlin Hall, Norton Center for the Arts
General Admission
5 p.m.
Dinner on the Lawn, Susie Miller Roush Lawn
Tickets required: $18 per adult, $12 per child under 12, free for children under 3. Graduates eat free.
7 p.m.
Honor Walk, Old Centre Lawn
Sunday, May 25
10 a.m.
Commencement Ceremony, Andy Frye Stadium
Tickets required: Each graduate will receive up to seven assigned seats in the central grandstand sections. Additional guests may sit in designated general admission seating on the field on a first-come, first-served basis. Gates will open at 8:30 a.m.
*Rain plan: Each graduate will receive four tickets in Newlin Hall. Additional guests may view the ceremony simulcast in Weisiger and Vahlkamp Theatres.
12 p.m.
Commencement Box Lunch, Susie Miller Roush Lawn
Tickets required: $15 per person, Free for children under 3. Graduates eat free.
How can I watch Centre College’s commencement ceremonies online?
To view simulcasts of both the Baccalaureate and Commencement ceremonies, visit Commencement Headquarters.
Where do I park during Centre College commencement?
You can park in the lot next to the Norton Center. Parking is also available on additional lots on campus. See the map here.
There will be shuttles transporting guests from the parking lots, around campus, before Baccalaureate and Commencement. They will cover every parking lot except by Northside Hall.
Do you have any tips for staying in Danville for Commencement?
Danville has so much to offer! Here’s what to know about lodging and local dining.
Where can I find photos from Commencement weekend?
Professional photographer Kirk Schlea will capture graduates’ photos as they cross the stage to receive their diplomas. Order Commencement Weekend photography here.
Follow Commencement weekend coverage on Centre social media — and share your photos with us using #CentreGrad25: