You also are invited to attend the Class of 2020 Graduates Day address with Caroline Kennedy at 11 a.m. CT on Friday, April 30. Registration is now open.
Graduates will cross the stage at Commencement
All students will cross the stage during Commencement ceremonies. Each graduate will cross the stage while remaining physically distanced. To help ensure safety protocols are being followed, there will be no close contact with the platform party or distribution of diplomas. As each graduate crosses the stage, their photo, name and degree will be displayed on the screen. Graduates whose ceremonies are in the stadium are encouraged not to wear high heels in order to keep the turf intact.
Strawberries and chocolate boxes for graduates
Each graduate attending in person will have the opportunity to pick up a takeaway box that will include chocolate-covered strawberries truffles and a commemorative gift. Undergraduate students will go to tents located near McGugin and 26th Avenue S and Kensington Avenue at 12:30 p.m. Graduate and professional students participating in ceremonies in the stadium and those participating in the Law School ceremony will go to McGugin. The remaining graduate and professional students participating in ceremonies at the Rec Fields will go to the Rec Field 2 tent after their ceremony.
All graduates, including those attending virtually, will receive a printed copy of the Commencement program mailed to their home address.
Sign up for Commencement weather text updates
As part of our emergency preparedness protocols, the university will monitor weather before and during all Commencement activities. In the event of severe inclement weather, ceremonies may be postponed or canceled. In the event of rain absent severe weather, ceremonies will continue, and ponchos will be provided to guests and graduates.
If you would like to receive weather text updates for Commencement ceremonies, please fill out this form. Updates also will be posted on the Commencement website and on the university’s social media accounts.
Other Important Reminders
- Clear bag policy will be in effect for all ceremonies. We encourage you and your guests to not bring bags to the ceremony. Events staff will visually scan bags at ticket check-in. Free lockers will be on site for those who need to check bags during the ceremony.
- No food and drink will be allowed in the ceremony locations. Canned water will be available at each ceremony.
- No umbrellas, posters or signage are allowed.
- Updated parking information for ceremonies can be found on the Commencement website.
- Mobility rides will be provided for guests who need assistance to and from ceremonies.