Tips for Lining Up for Commencement
- Park in the East Lot of the coliseum and enter the arena floor from the stairwell at section 116.
- Outside food or drink are not allowed in the coliseum.
- Leave personal valuables with friends or family.
- Place all electronic devices on silent.
- Arrive promptly at 6:15 p.m. in your cap and gown.
- Video cameras and still photography are allowed.
- Listen to the instructions given out by the staff, and stay in line.
Look for your division by the color-coded signs:
- Arts and Sciences - Blue
- Business Information Technology - Green
- Engineering Technology - Red
- Health Technology - Gold
REHEARSAL
3:30-5:00 p.m.
All graduates must attend a mandatory rehearsal. Graduates should assemble on the arena level of the coliseum. Important information and instructions will be provided to ensure a successful ceremony. Gold tassels for honors designation (3.5 GPA or higher) will be distributed at rehearsal to students that have completed all graduation requirements. Please refer to the honors designation information on page 2.
RECEPTION
5:00-6:15 p.m.
Each academic division will host a floating reception for graduates, families, and friends. The receptions will be in the Windsor Club on the concourse level. The Arts and Sciences Division will be in the Salem Room, the Engineering Technology Division and the Business Information Technology Divisions will be in the Winston Room, and the Health Technology Division will be in the Piedmont Room. Please join the dean, faculty, and staff in your division.
LINE UP
6:15 p.m.
Graduates must assemble promptly at 6:15 p.m. on the concourse level of the coliseum between sections 116 and 110 for proper line up. Graduates will receive a color-coded card with their name to give to their division dean at the stage for announcing graduate information.
CEREMONY
7:00 p.m.
The ceremony will begin promptly at 7:00 p.m.
TIPS FOR A MEMORABLE COMMENCEMENT
- Parking is free. Park in the East Lot on rows G, H, J, and K.
- Enter the arena floor from the stairwell at section 116.
- Parents/family are to enter through the Main Lobby.
- Parents/family will not be allowed on the arena floor or the backstage areas.
- Outside food or drink is not allowed.
- Concessions, with a limited menu, will be open from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.
- Confetti or helium balloons are not allowed in the arena.
- Video cameras and still photography are allowed.
- A photographer will be taking photo orders at rehearsal.
- Diplomas for students that have completed all program of study requirements can be picked up when you exit the ceremony. Diplomas for summer graduates will be mailed in August.