Commencement

Day-of Instructions

Ceremony Guidelines

Attire

Commencement is a formal occasion. Professional attire is recommended.

• Slacks, skirts, dresses, blouses, collared shirt and tie are acceptable.
• Comfortable shoes are recommended, graduates will be walking long distances and standing for long periods of time.

All graduates participating in commencement are required to wear approved academic regalia.

• Students not in compliance with standards will NOT be allowed to participate in the ceremony.
• Military personnel are permitted to wear their dress uniforms in place of regalia. 

Cell Phones and Electronic Devices

Please be sure to turn all electronic devices on silent mode or off to ensure all guests enjoy the commencement activities.

Conferral of Degrees

All candidates for graduation will rise as a group, when presented to the chancellor for conferral of degrees by their respective dean.

• Diploma covers will be distributed during the ceremony.

Actual diplomas will be mailed approximately 10 weeks after commencement once degree requirements have been confirmed.

Exiting the Vadalabene Center

At the end of the ceremony, all graduates will recess out of the west exit. Guests will not be able to follow the graduates out immediately. You may exit through the east doors immediately, or the west doors will open 10 minutes after the graduate recession. Please note the graduates are not allowed to return to the gym after the ceremony. Please plan on meeting your graduate outside.

Food and Beverage

Light concessions will be available for purchase in the east lobby of the Vadalabene Center.

Pets

No animals are permitted in University buildings or facilities, with the exception of the following: service animals for persons with disabilities; animals used by law enforcement or emergency personnel in the exercise of their official duties; or animals approved pursuant to University Housing resident guidelines, including therapy animals for residents with disabilities. Approved therapy animals are not permitted in University buildings other than Housing units.

Photography

GradImages is the authorized photographer for commencement.

• All graduates will have their photo taken as they receive their diploma covers, a posed photo with their diploma as they leave the platform, and a formal portrait.
• You may pre-register with GradImages.
  • Graduates can register up to six people to receive access to their portraits.

After the ceremony, photos may be ordered online at gradimages.com or by phone at 800-261‑2576.

Guests may take photos from their seats, but will not be permitted to approach the stage or stand in aisles/walkways/doorways.

• For the safety of all of our guests, aisles/walkways/doorways must be kept clear at all times.

Please be respectful of these rules and of those who enforce them.

Presentation of Colors

Hats and caps should be removed, and everyone should stand during the presentation of the flag and singing of the National Anthem.

Seating and Applause

Saving seats is strictly prohibited.

• All members of one’s party must be in attendance to claim seats.

All guests are asked to hold applause and cheers until all graduates have crossed the stage.

• Out of respect for all graduates and their families, noise makers will be confiscated.

Please be respectful of these rules and of those who enforce them.