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CEREMONY NOTES FOR UNDERGRADS

We are pleased that you plan to participate in the 127th Annual Commencement Ceremony. Below are the details and instructions you will need to help you prepare for this important occasion. If you need additional information, your plans for attending have changed or you have further questions, please call the Office of Student Records and Academic Information at 271-2241 or 271-3901.

Undergraduate Ceremony (10 a.m., Sunday, May 18th) notes:

  • 8:30 a.m. the doors open.
  • All participants need to be assembled in the Bell Center gym by 9:15 a.m.
  • Name cards will be on the chairs, which are arranged alphabetically by college. Once you find your name card, follow the instructions on the card.
  • The Name Reader, Professor Gary Wade, will be available from 9 a.m. until 9:30 a.m. if you would like to speak with him about the pronunciation of your name.
  • You need to be dressed in your cap and gown and in your seat by 9:15 a.m.
  • The University Marshal will provide last-minute instructions and announcements at 9:30 a.m.
  • The processional leaves the Bell Center gym at 9:45 a.m. for the walk to the Knapp Center. Students who arrive late will be directed to the end of the line for their college.
  • The Marshals will direct the recessional to the lobby of the Knapp Center or outside (weather permitting), not back to the Bell Center gym.

Assembling more than 600 graduates, faculty and special guests to proceed in an orderly, formal manner takes everyone's cooperation and attention. Therefore, please listen and follow directions.

Caution:

  • Stay in line for the processional! Otherwise, you may have seating difficulties on the main floor.
  • The consumption of all alcoholic beverages at the ceremonies is prohibited. Marshals and staff have been instructed to confiscate any alcoholic beverages.
  • No decorations (flowers, jewelry, signs, etc.) are to be worn on academic caps or gowns.
  • No helium balloons or silly string will be allowed in the Drake Knapp Center. Helium is a safety issue with the lights and the string damages the floor.
  • Please avoid bringing personal or valuable items. Graduates should not carry anything during the processional.