The Class of 2023

Commencement

Above: President Anne Harris and Loyal Terry ’23 shared a moment of celebration as she presented him with the 2023 President’s Medal, awarded to an individual who best embodies the mission and values of a Grinnell education.

The College’s newest alums celebrated in style during the traditional, outdoor Commencement ceremony held May 22. Three hundred and ninety-nine students representing 41 states and 19 countries were awarded degrees in 27 different majors and 15 concentrations.

Ham Serunjogi ’16 delivered the keynote address, encouraging graduates to “do things that matter because they matter, not because success is guaranteed. The world desperately needs Grinnellians to do things that matter, to tackle the hardest problems, not because success is guaranteed but because they are important.”

Serunjogi, the co-founder and CEO of Chipper Cash, who also serves on the College’s Board of Trustees, received his honorary degree citation from President Anne Harris.

Ham Serunjogi shakes hands with Anne Harris. both are in full academic regalia

Honorary degrees were awarded to four individuals who have made significant contributions to their fields of expertise. Pictured left to right: Irma McClaurin ’73, Ham Serunjogi ’16, Peggy Barlett ’69, and William Love. Four people in academic robes smiling at the camera