Commencement 2011

At Swarthmore's 139th commencement on May 29, President Rebecca Chopp awarded honorary degrees to innovative publisher and philanthropist David Bradley '75, acclaimed criminologist David Kennedy '80, and noted entrepreneur and educator Iqbal Quadir '81. In addition, 366 undergraduates were awarded degrees at the ceremony, held at the Scott Amphitheater.

Of the 366 graduates, 358 received the Bachelor of Arts degree and 14 the Bachelor of Science in engineering degree. Six had double degrees. Highest honors were awarded to 18, 74 received high honors, and 44 received honors. The senior class speaker, as voted by her classmates, was Natalie Bamdad '11, who graduated with honors in English literature and psychology. Special awards announced at the ceremony include the Ivy, Oak, Lang, and McCabe Engineering Awards.

Robert DuPlessis, Isaac H. Clothier Professor of History and International Relations, addressed the graduating class at Baccalaureate services on May 28. The Baccalaureate is the spiritual component of Commencement weekend, featuring the inspirational remarks of a friend of the College. DuPlessis was followed by Howard A. Schneiderman Professor of Biology Scott Gilbert, who addressed the senior class at Last Collection. Speakers at this address, an assembly-style gathering, are chosen by the senior class.