Commencement Ceremonies

General Information About the Ceremony

SEATING FOR GUESTS

• Doors to the arena will open at 7:45 am for guest seating.
• Wear comfortable clothing because the arena is not air conditioned.
• A musical prelude begins a half-hour before the ceremony.

ARRIVAL OF GRADUATES

• Candidates should arrive NO LATER THAN 8:10 am.
• Enter at the door to the arena marked "Graduates Only."
• Belongings may be stored in Kjer Theatre near the Information Table.
• Please do not leave purses, wallets, or other valuables in the theatre.

PHOTOGRAPHS

• Professional photographs will be taken of all graduates as they
  receive their diplomas.
• Photographs taken by Chappell Graduation Images.
• In an attempt to be more environmentally friendly, proofs will be
  e-mailed approximately three weeks after the ceremony and
  orders may be placed online.
• Preregister for graduation photography and be notified immediately when
  photos are ready for online viewing and ordering: Preregister Link
• No standing at the front for photos during the ceremony.
• Personal photos may be taken on the platform following the ceremony.

DIPLOMA

• Graduates will receive only a diploma cover during the ceremony.
• Diplomas will be mailed to graduate's permanent address 4-8 weeks
  after commencement.

LENGTH OF CEREMONY

• Approximately an hour and a half.

ALCOHOL AND AIR HORNS

• Absolutely NO alcoholic beverages or air horns will be permitted in the arena.
• Violators are subject to legal action.

RECESSIONAL

• Stay seated as the platform party and faculty exit the arena.
• Graduates do not march from the arena, so make arrangements
  for a meeting place with guests beforehand.

RECEPTION

• Immediately following the ceremony on the central campus mall,
  near the clock tower, or in the Spruce/Tamarack Room of Davies
  Center depending on the weather.
• All graduates and guests are welcome.