Information for Faculty

Commencement is a meaningful academic tradition, and faculty play an essential role in honoring Drake University’s graduates. From participating in the procession to supporting the flow of the ceremony, faculty involvement helps create a dignified and memorable experience for students and their families.

Find guidance and key details to help you prepare for Commencement Weekend, including expectations, timelines, and day‑of information for faculty participating in the ceremony.

Academic Regalia

Regarding academic regalia, please contact the University Book Store at 515-214-2151.

Faculty participating in Commencement must order their regalia rentals online through Herff Jones's website using the customer and order numbers below. Please ensure you select the correct order number when placing your rental.

Deadline information:

• April 18th - Last day to order with free shipping
• April 27th - Final deadline to place your order (rush shipping fees will apply after April 18th)

Main Faculty - Standard Regalia

• Customer #: 14001855000
• Order #: 5491961

Law - Doctor of Law Regalia (purple panels and chevrons)

• Customer #: 14001855000
• Order #: 5491962

Ceremony Notes for Faculty

Your attendance and ceremonial participation is important to the commencement events. The Provost will send an email and RSVP form 2-3 weeks prior to the ceremony. Please complete the RSVP. This will ensure you a seat in the faculty seating area.

Please assemble in the Bell Center gym 30 minutes prior to the start of each ceremony:

• Undergraduate Ceremony: Arrive no later than 9:30 a.m.
• Graduate Ceremony: Arrive no later than 1:30 p.m.

Faculty marshals will direct the lineup for the processional.

The Pharmacy & Health Sciences faculty receive instructions from the CPHS concerning the May College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences Professional Hooding and Commencement.

The Law faculty receive instructions from Kris Magill concerning the May Law School Commencement.