IYRS Graduation & Launch Day

Keynote Speaker, Dr. Robert McNeil: Craftsman, international yachtsman, venture capitalist, and owner of iconic historic yachts.

On Saturday, May 31, students from IYRS’ three accredited programs will graduate from their respective Schools of Technology and Trade, and the students from the Boatbuilding & Restoration Program will launch their boats. The public is welcome to join the ceremony and launching festivities and see the fine craftsmanship produced by students.

International yachtsman, Dr. Robert McNeil, who owns and is funding the restoration of CORONET on the IYRS campus, will speak at the ceremonies. He will share some aspirational stories and his own thoughts about IYRS and the school’s graduates, as well as the importance of saving America’s on-water treasurers for future generations.

Graduation ceremonies begin at the IYRS Newport campus (449 Thames Street) at 10:00 am inside Restoration Hall. After the speaking and certificate award program, the crowd is invited to the school docks to watch the launching of the newly restored boats: the 1936 Herreshoff S-Class Sloop, MISTY; the 1945 Quincy Adams 17 (LWL), PLUM, as well as a replica of the 1885 Herreshoff Rowing Dinghy, GEM.