2021 Commencement

A Celebration Like No Other

By Wake Forest University

May 17^th, 2021

Celebrating Together

For the first time on this Commencement Day, the Class of 2021 was gathered together at the same time in one happy place. The special event to celebrate grads began at 8:30 p.m. on Wake Forest’s Truist Field.

Kicking Off

Dean of the Divinity School Jonathan Lee Walton delivered a powerful invocation, including a reminder of the need for appreciation and thankfulness. The Wake Forest Dance Team dazzled with a high-energy performance.

Honoring President Nathan Hatch

Wake Forest President Nathan O. Hatch received an honorary degree - and a standing ovation. After leading Wake Forest for 15 years, President Hatch is stepping down this summer. The class of 2021 is the last group of students who will graduate under his leadership.

Protect and Defend

ROTC candidates were commissioned after a pre-recorded talk by Condoleezza Rice, 66th Secretary of State, author, and professor, and the first African American woman to serve as both Secretary of State and National Security Advisor. Other well-wishes were delivered virtually by Pete Buttigieg, the U.S. Secretary of Transportation, and Kendall Hinton (‘19), wide receiver for the Denver Broncos.

The Sound of Music

The University’s gospel and choral groups performed after a brief rain shower brought swift delivery of clear ponchos for the grads.

Hat Toss and Fireworks

While the celebration was non-traditional, one element remained the same. Provost Kersh invited grads to move their tassels and toss their caps. Then fireworks lit the sky behind Bridger Fieldhouse.

Saying Goodbye (or See You Later)

The Spirit of the Old Gold & Black Marching Band played and WF flags flew as the Demon Deacon and President Hatch rode the Deacon’s motorcycle through the exit – leading Wake Forest’s newest alumni off the field to their next adventure.