Commencement FAQs

What is the date and time of Commencement?
Commencement will take place on the College’s Great Lawn in four ceremonies scheduled for Friday, May 21, 2021 at 5 p.m. and Saturday, May 22, 2021 at 9 a.m. Graduates will begin lining up one hour prior to their respective processions in Smith Hall, Founders Hall. The processions will begin promptly at the times indicated above.

Are tickets required? Is there a guest limit?
To enable social distancing, the size of the crowd on campus will need to be very limited, so each graduate will receive a maximum of two guest tickets and one parking permit. It is expected that the graduate and their guests arrive together. The two guests will be required to sit together. There will be no single seats available. This will allow to maximize the number of participants and guests.

How long does the ceremony last?
Each ceremony is expected to last approximately one hour.

Will my graduate be individually recognized?
Yes, each graduate’s name will be announced and the graduate will walk across the stage. Graduates will be called to the stage by degree, in no particular order.

Is PPE required? 
Yes, all graduates and guests are expected to wear face coverings. All social distancing requirements must be observed. The College reserves the right to refuse entry to individuals not in compliance with PPE and social distancing requirements.

What is the suggested guest attire?
Weather conditions have varied from picture-perfect to extreme rain or heat. Graduates and guests are advised to dress comfortably and be prepared for the weather. If it is raining, you may want to bring umbrellas, appropriate rain gear, and a covering for your chair. Bring sun block and hats for sunny conditions. Wear shoes appropriate for grassy areas.

When should guests plan on arriving?
Guests will be permitted to enter the tent beginning 60 minutes before the procession.

Is there reserved seating for Commencement?
No. Seats are reserved only for the graduates and special Commencement guests. Guests are expected to sit with the other members of their family/household.

Are there any special arrangements needed for guests with physical disabilities?
Requests for special arrangements (i.e.: sign language interpretation) can be made to the Office of Campus Events no later than Friday, May 14, 2021.

Marked handicapped parking spaces are reserved for vehicles with handicapped license plates and handicapped parking placards issued by a municipality.

What about parking?
It is expected that the graduates and their guests arrive together. Each graduate will be issued one parking permit.

What campus services will be open for the ceremonies?
All campus buildings and offices will be closed. There will be portable restrooms available in Rosary Parking Lot. Refreshments will not be available. The Campus Store will be open. Guests are encouraged to bring bottled water with them.

What if my guests need overnight accommodations?
For guests who need overnight accommodations, below is a list of local hotels within 20-30 minutes from the College:

Where can I pick-up my diploma?
Students may pick up their diplomas May 24 to 28 between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. in the Curry Center on the second floor of Founders Hall. Graduates who do not pick up their diplomas may request to have them mailed to them from the Office of the Registrar.

Can I attend the other ceremony to support my friends?
In order to limit the size of the crowd to comply with state social distancing guidance, students will only be permitted to attend their assigned event unless they have a College-issued guest ticket for the other event.

Is there a lost and found on campus?
Lost items will be turned in at the Office of Safety and Security in the Maloney Center, located in the lower level of the library. Inquiries about lost articles may be made in person or by calling (718) 405-3722.