Day of Commencement Instructions -Graduates

Before the commencement ceremony:

• Check your regalia to ensure it is the correct size and appropriate for your degree. The Bookstore, in the Union, will be available to take care of any necessary adjustments. Any honors cords or stoles that would accompany your cap and gown come directly from your department or organization. If you have a question about these additions, please contact your department administrator or organization chair.

Day of commencement ceremony:

• Request family members or friends to secure your personal belongings. There are no attended areas to secure personal items or valuables. 
• Graduates should arrive one hour prior to the start of their ceremony with their regalia on.
• Graduates should enter the west ARC doors. These doors are just off the Victory Bell lawn.
• Line up in the Hilltop Gym. You should immediately make your way to the Hilltop Gym upon your arrival. There, you will receive your name reader card. It is extremely important that you keep this card with you and have it in hand when you approach the stage. Once you have your name reader card, faculty marshals in gold robes will assist with lining you up in the correct order. You will stay in the Hilltop Gym until the procession begins approximately 10 minutes before the start of the commencement ceremony.
• Advanced Degree Students: Those receiving an advanced degree should carry their hood in to the ARC with them. Please carry your hood draped over your left arm as you approach the hooding station near the stage. Graduates will be hooded by a faculty member prior to having their name called on stage.
• Students graduating with honors will be asked to stand as a group for recognition during the ceremony.
• We anticipate the ceremony will be approximately 1.5 hrs. long.