Ceremony Instructions for Graduates

1:00pm:

Students will assemble in the Fairchild Center courtyard. Following the marshal’s instructions, line up behind the sign listing your degree (PhD, MS, and BS).

You will be handed an index card to write your name on. If your name is particularly difficult to pronounce, write it phonetically beneath the correct spelling. 

Hold on to the index card until it's your turn to receive a diploma. Hand the card to the announcer as soon as the previous graduate starts walking across the stage. This will give the announcer a few seconds to determine the pronunciation of your name before reading it aloud. Wait at the podium until your name is read.

Your tassel should be kept on the left side of your academic cap (mortarboard).

MS graduates will place their own hood over head onto their shoulders and button before lining up to receive diploma. PhD graduates should keep hoods unbuttoned and folded over their left arm, until they hand it to the faculty hooder on the stage who will place it over their head and onto their shoulders. 

1:30pm:

The ceremony will begin. Staff and faculty will be there to assist you throughout the program. Please remember to bring your index card with you as you are asked to move to the podium to receive your diploma case.

NOTE: You will receive your official diploma after the entire ceremony ends at a nearby table where staff will be on hand to assist you in securing the correct diploma.

After you receive your diploma case, please return directly to your seat and remain there until the entire ceremony has concluded. 

Related Links for Commencement