Commencement is a significant and celebratory event, the culmination of years of study and accomplishment.
All attendees are expected to adhere to the following guidelines:
- Alcohol is not to be brought and/or consumed on campus.
- Smoking is not allowed in the line up and seating areas.
- Due to fire code regulations, guests may not block aisles to take photographs, strollers must be parked in designated areas, and seats must remain zip-tied.
- Noise makers, beach balls, etc., are not permitted.
- Only authorized photographers and Commencement staff are permitted on and behind the stage area during the ceremony.
- Avoid unnecessary conversation and movement during the exercises.
- Individuals who engage in inappropriate or disruptive behavior may be removed from the event.
Those participating in the ceremony are expected to adhere to the following:
- Students, faculty, and administration may not bring babies or young children to participate in the ceremony with them.
- Students may not take selfies or use selfie sticks while crossing the stage.
- After removing hats for and standing through the playing of the National Anthem, 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, 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.