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Notes for Graduate & Doctoral Students

Important Information for the Graduate & Doctoral Ceremony

The Graduate and Doctoral Commencement Ceremony will take place at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, May 17th, 2025. Below are the details to help you prepare. If you need additional information, your plans change, or you have any questions, please contact the Office of the Registrar at registrar@drake.edu.

Event Details

  • Doors Open: 12:30 p.m. (Bell Center)
  • Ceremony Start Time: 2:00 p.m. (Knapp Center)
  • Location: Students will assemble in the Bell Center and process to the Knapp Center for the ceremony.
  • Ceremony Duration: The ceremony typically lasts between 75 to 90 minutes.

Instructions for Graduates

  1. Arrival Time: The Bell Center doors open at 12:30 p.m. All students must be seated in the Bell Center gym by 1:15 p.m. to receive instructions for the ceremony.
  2. Personal Items: Please avoid bringing personal items such as purses, phones, or valuables into the Bell Center gym. We recommend leaving personal items with guests in the Knapp Center. Jackets and personal items can be left with staff in the Bell Center, but must be picked up prompt following the ceremony.
  3. Bell Center Seating: Graduates must be seated in the Bell Center gym by 1:15 p.m. Name cards will be placed on chairs, organized alphabetically by college/school. Once you find your name card, follow the instructions on the back.
  4. Name Pronunciation: If you wish to confirm the pronunciation of your name, the name reader will be available from 1:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
  5. Dress Code: Graduates are required to wear the appropriate regalia for their degree. Graduates must be dressed in their cap and gown and seated in their designated spot by 1:15 p.m. for final instructions.
  6. Final Instructions: The Assistant University Marshal will provide final instructions and announcements at 1:30 p.m.
  7. Processional: The processional will leave the Bell Center gym at 1:50 p.m. for the walk to the Knapp Center. Late arrivals will be placed at the end of their college/school line.
  8. Recessional: After the ceremony, the Marshals will direct the recessional to the lobby of the Knapp Center. Remember to return to the Bell Center to retrieve any personal items you may have left with staff.

Important Guidelines

With nearly 300 participants, it is important for everyone to follow instructions carefully to ensure an orderly and formal procession.

  • Attire Restrictions: No decorations, such as flowers, jewelry, or signs, are allowed on academic caps or gowns.
  • Personal Items: Graduates may not carry any personal items into the Knapp Center other than their name card.
  • Alcohol Prohibited: The consumption of alcohol is strictly prohibited. Marshals and staff are authorized to confiscate any alcoholic beverages.
  • Prohibited Items: Helium balloons, silly string, and similar items are not allowed in the Knapp Center.