Commencement Etiquette
The commencement ceremony honors graduates from five terms: the previous August and December as well as May, August, and December of the Commencement year. It is a significant and solemn event, the recognition of years of study and accomplishment.
In consideration of others, guests and participants are requested to adhere to the following guidelines:
- It is customary to remove caps and hats during the playing of the National Anthem.
- Students and guests should avoid unnecessary conversation and movement during the exercises.
- Degree candidates are expected to remain in their seats throughout the entire ceremony, except when approaching the stage to receive their diploma cover. Out of respect for everyone having their names called, all students are expected to remain quietly seated until the President confers degrees at the end of the ceremony and the President’s party and University faculty have recessed.
- Alcohol is not to be brought and/or consumed on campus.
- Noise makers, beach balls, confetti, etc., are not permitted at Commencement.
- Students may not bring pets, babies, or young children to participate in the ceremony with them.
- Students: In consideration of others, refrain from using cell phones and/or pagers when lining-up, while processing to Sunken Garden, and during the Commencement ceremony.
- Only authorized photographers and Commencement staff are permitted on the stage area during the ceremony.
- Individuals who engage in inappropriate or disruptive behavior may be removed from the event.