Lesley honored more than 1,200 graduates during a vibrant virtual ceremony on May 22, 2021. Enjoy highlights, photos and videos from our graduates, student speakers, special guests, honorees, and more.
Commencement 2021
Finding community and facing the challenges
Virtual Commencement celebrated the determination and persistence of the Lesley University Class of 2021 as relief from the prolonged pandemic appeared.
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Guest speaker Elizabeth Broun, first woman to lead the Smithsonian American Art Museum
Lesley celebrated Dr. Broun with an honorary degree. She urged graduates to draw inspiration from leading young voices, including climate activist Greta Thunburg, inauguration poet Amanda Gorman and Parkland survivor and gun control advocate Emma González.
Guest speaker Laurie Santos hosts the popular podcast “The Happiness Lab”
Dr. Santos, a Yale professor, encouraged graduates to “give yourself a little grace” and fight the toxic culture to be pushed to the brink. “The post-pandemic world needs you, in particular, to get it right," she said to graduates. "And that means you’ve got to listen to the science.”
Virtual Commencement 2021 Highlights
President Steinmayer celebrates the Class of 2021
PhD graduates honored
Commencement 2021 Program
See photos of Class of 2021 graduates
Class of 2021 Graduates (first names A-D)
Class of 2021 Graduates (first names N-Q)
Class of 2021 Graduates (first names R-Z)
News & stories about our inspiring graduates
Read about our graduates who are going on to blaze trails as teachers, counselors, expressive arts therapists, and more.
A science graduate pursues a PhD
73-year-old graduate completes degree
Persisting and making it happen
Gihanah Seb-Di Dio ’21 receives Wolfard Award
Instilling hope, healing and dignity
Pandemic pushes former Lesley student to complete degree
Holistic psychology grad explores Native American trauma, healing
‘Lost Boy’ finds path to success
Bringing art history to life
Looking to Lesley for a bright future
Resisting oppression in the healing fields
Mustering resilience and finding a purpose
Making room for art
Watch Virtual Commencement 2021
Enjoy remarks from university leaders, honorary degree recipients, guest speakers, student speakers, deans and the Alumni Association president, and view the PHD Hooding Ceremony.