Colby-Sawyer College will celebrate its 184th Commencement on Saturday, May 7, with its first traditional, in-person event for graduates and their guests since 2019. The ceremony will begin at 10:30 a.m. on the quad of the college’s New London campus.

Though it will not be a ticketed event, graduates are asked to limit their guests to four to six people. A link to a livestream will be posted on the college’s website for those unable to attend in person. More information is available at Commencement 2022.

This year’s Commencement ceremony will celebrate 156 graduating students in the Class of 2022 and will also recognize several members of the college and greater community for academic excellence, outstanding contributions to society and service to the college and its students.

Alumna and Trustee Emerita Sonja Carlson Davidow ’56 will be recognized with an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters, which honors an individual of humanitarian character and superior intellect whose life and work have brought about positive, far-reaching consequences for individuals and organizations.

Two recipients, alumna and former vice chair of the Board of Trustees Robin L. Mead ’72 and former member of the Board of Trustees David B. Payne, will be awarded the Susan Colgate Cleveland Medal for Distinguished Service. The college’s highest honor, this medal is presented to individuals who exemplify the college’s first leader Susan Colgate Cleveland’s attributes, ensuring that her work, dedication and influence will be remembered by future generations.

School of Business & Social Sciences Assistant Professor Kimberly France will receive the Jack Jensen Award for Excellence in Teaching, the college’s highest teaching award. Presented annually to a faculty member who has made a distinct, positive difference in the college’s academic climate, the award honors the late Professor Jack Jensen, who, through his dedication to teaching, inspired faculty and students alike. In accordance with Colby-Sawyer tradition, as winner of the Jensen Award, Professor France will deliver the Commencement address at this year’s ceremony.

To learn more about the award winners, visit Commencement 2022 Awards.