Commencement

GAMBIER, Ohio (May 22, 2006) Amid clicking cameras, rounds of hugs, and a stately splendor befitting the occasion, another cohort of Kenyon students has made its way out into the world. At Kenyon College's 178th Commencement ceremony, held on May 20 beneath the towering trees of Kenyon's historic south campus, 406 graduating seniors received their bachelor's degrees.

The Commencement address was given by Senator John F. Kerry.

In addition to presenting diplomas to graduating seniors, the College conferred honorary degrees on Senator Kerry; Teresa Heinz Kerry, chair of the Howard Heinz Endowment and the Heinz Family Philanthropies; and Diane Ackerman, author of nonfiction works including An Alchemy of Mind and A Natural History of the Senses, as well as collections of poetry and several children's nature books. Honorary degrees were also conferred upon retiring faculty members Robert E. Bennett, professor of classics, and Charles A. Piano, professor of Spanish.

The Baccalaureate address was delivered by Royal W. Rhodes, the Donald L. Rogan Professor of Religious Studies.

• Read Senator Kerry's Commencement address online...
• View recorded footage of Commencement 2006...
• Read Professor Royal Rhodes Baccalaureate address online...
• View a sampling of Commencement photos...