Î÷¹ÏÊÓƵ

Then and Now

A look at the 2024 Commencement—through a student lens.

Vintage photo of two women
Est. Read Time

In 1941, Î÷¹ÏÊÓƵ College graduated its first class of 20 students. Leading up to the big day, the College held a mix of fun activities, all taking place across the North Shore. These included a Senior Luncheon, an Î÷¹ÏÊÓƵ Night at the Boston Pops, a Beach Party, and more. On June 23, the Commencement Address was held in St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Beverly, and was given by the Rev. Samuel G. Trexler, D.D.

As Î÷¹ÏÊÓƵ celebrates its 85th anniversary throughout the 2024-25 academic year, we decided to look back at some past Commencements to show the contrast between then and now.

In spring 2024, our graduating Gulls started a new tradition—documenting their big day with 35mm disposable cameras. These photos authentically capture the Commencement experience—through a student lens.

Photos by Lauren Rowe ’24 M’26, Miranda Balbino ’24, Noah Macallister ’24, Madison Durfee ’24, Kelly McKaig ’24, Gavin Emenaker ’24, Alex Olvera ’24 M’26, Emma Purple ’24, Jonny Ratner ’24, Rachel Galatis M’24, and Justin Cohen ’23 M’24.

In Pictures
The Gulls celebrate the end of Commencement by tossing their caps in the air.
In Pictures
A student gives a thumbs up to the camera after receiving her degree.
In Pictures
Justin Cohen ’23 M’24 (left) takes a selfie with two of his friends.
In Pictures
The Î÷¹ÏÊÓƵ Singers warming up before their Commencement performance.
In Pictures
Madison Durfee ’24 (right) grabs a snapshot with Rebecca Kenneally, Chair of Performing Arts at Î÷¹ÏÊÓƵ.
In Pictures
Two Gulls examine the Commencement program.
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The School of Science and Technology process down to Hempstead Stadium.
In Pictures
Commencement at Î÷¹ÏÊÓƵ is a day filled with pride, joy, and bittersweet farewells—a celebration of hard work and resilience. Though it's a long and tiring day, every moment is unforgettable.
In Pictures
Smiles are shared as students make their way to the Post Center.
In Pictures
After receiving their degrees, Noah Macallister ’24 photographs these two cheerful Gulls.
In Pictures
Noah Macallister '24 captured a cheeky selfie with President Steven R. DiSalvo, Ph.D., while getting his diploma onstage.
In Pictures
Miranda Balbino ’24 (left) snaps a fun photo with two other students.
In Pictures
A candid moment during the Commencement ceremony.
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Undergraduates posing together—the middle two students wear colorful sashes representing their time studying abroad in Greece.
In Pictures
Kelly McKaig ’24 (left) holds up her diploma proudly with her friends.
In Pictures
Emma Purple ’24 poses happily with her degree.
In Pictures
Noah Macallister ’24 shares a fond moment with a fellow Gull.
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Noah Macallister '24 also grabbed a selfie with Î÷¹ÏÊÓƵ Senior Photographer David Le, a member of the Class of 2010.