Instructions and Seating
Baccalaureate
The Baccalaureate service will begin at 10:00 a.m. Central Daylight Time on Saturday, May 9, 2009 in Neu Chapel on the University campus. Degree candidates may sit with family and friends as there is no formal processional for this service in Neu Chapel. Cap and gown are optional. Attendance at baccalaureate is not mandatory.
Commencement
Commencement will be at 1:30 p.m. Central Daylight Time on Saturday, May 9, 2009 at Roberts Stadium. Degree Candidates should report to Roberts Stadium by 12:30 P.M.
Seating for Guests
No tickets are required.
Seating Assignment
Please report to the Office of the Registrar to obtain your seating assignment.
Conferring of Degrees
Tassels should be kept on the right side of the caps. Women should wear their caps throughout the ceremony, Men should remove their caps for the invocation and keep them off until the conferring of degrees. Men will remove their caps for the benediction.
When Dr. Susan Kupisch, Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs, says "Mr. President, I have the pleasure of presenting to you candidates for degrees," all candidates should stand and remain standing. After University President Stephen Jennings confers the degrees, the first row of candidates should then move forward as directed by a marshal, and remaining rows should be seated. A marshal will direct each row to the platform. When your name is called, move forward, accept your diploma cover with your left hand and shake hands with President Jennings with your right hand. Return to your seat as directed by a marshal.
At the conclusion of the ceremony, a marshal will lead all graduates through the recessional.
Reception
Graduates, their families, and guests are invited to a reception in the Krannert Gallery immediately following the Baccalaureate service, preceding the Commencement exercises.
Diplomas
Diplomas for May graduates will be available after the ceremony at designated tables on the concourse. If you do not attend the ceremony, we will mail your diploma to your home address. Diplomas for successful summer degree candidates will be available in the Registrar's Office the first week of September. At that time, we will mail your diploma to your home address. If you would like your diploma mailed elsewhere, please contact the Registrar's Office at (812) 488-2601.
