Graduating Student Ceremony Instructions

The following instructions are for DC, Graduate and Undergraduate students.

• Leave all personal belongings with family/friends
• Make sure you have your cap, gown, tassel
• Hood – DC, Master’s students only

Arrive on site:

• Report to the designated area identified by Student Affairs 45 minutes prior to your ceremony start time.
• Check in with staff and receive your name card.
• Go to the line-up area as instructed by Student Affairs personnel.
• Do not leave personal items behind; the space will not be secured during the ceremony.

Processional (entering ceremony):

• Approximately 30 minutes prior to the ceremony start time, you will begin to line up in two columns.
• Move to your seat, but do not sit until directed to do so by the Dean of Students.

Ceremony:

• By department, students will be directed to approach the stage.
• Hand your name card to the commencement reader.
• All students walk across the stage, shake hands and get photographed with the president.
• You will receive a diploma cover at Commencement, and diplomas will be mailed 6-8 weeks following Commencement.
• After exiting the stage, you will have a professional photograph.
• Return to your seat.