Participation

Commencement is not required to graduate but is highly encouraged. Participation means attending the Commencement ceremony in regalia, marching in the processional and recessional, and going forward to the stage to receive your diploma from the College President. Students who participate in the Commencement ceremony are expected to be present throughout the entire ceremony. You will not be allowed to receive your diploma and depart before the recessional.

What to do on Graduation Day

Please arrive at the Maclay Building no later than 9:00 a.m. Leave your personal items and valuables with your guests. The processional begins promptly at 9:50 a.m., and you must be in your regalia and in alphabetical order by major before that time. Signs will be posted and faculty/staff will be available to help you find your place in line. Find your name and wait patiently for the commencement to start.

The processional order will begin with the platform party, followed by the graduates, and then the faculty and staff. Graduates will exit the Maclay Building from the west entrance and will proceed into the Cox Activities Center side door. Once in the gym, you will be ushered in each section, simultaneously, row by row. Please remain standing until you are seated as a group. Bring a pen or pencil with you to complete the 3x5 card on your chair. Clearly print your first and last name on the card. If pronunciation is difficult, write it as it sounds. The card will be read as you cross the stage. It is customary to have your first and last name read. As you are ushered to the stage, hand your card to the assistant announcer. As the announcer reads your name, proceed across the stage to receive your diploma cover. Take the diploma cover with your left hand and shake with your right. Your picture will be taken as you walk down the ramp. Pause momentarily while your picture is taken. While exiting on the ramp, be aware of the photo for the graduate before you. You do not want to be photographed in their picture. You will then return to your seat and remain standing until the whole row has returned. Once everyone in the graduating class has received their diploma cover, you will be instructed to turn your tassel as an entire group. During the recessional, you will be ushered out beginning with the back row.

Following the ceremony a reception honoring the graduates will be held in the College Welcome Center. You and your guests are invited to enjoy refreshments and visit with faculty and staff.

Need help or additional information?

If you need assistance or additional information please visit our office in the College Welcome Center, fill out our contact form, or contact: