Ceremony Order and Processional

The order of the ceremony is as follows: 

• Awards Presentations
• Diplomas given out in order: PhD, MSCF, then MBA
• Recessional (faculty exit the stage, followed by students)

At the conclusion of the ceremony, graduates will proceed to the marked area in the foyer to pick up diplomas. Please direct your guests to the post-ceremony reception, and do not bring guests to the diploma pick-up area. Staff members and volunteers will be handing out the diplomas. Signage on the tables will indicate PhD, MSCF and MBA.

No diplomas will be given out prior to the end of the entire ceremony.

After the ceremony, unclaimed diplomas are turned over to the University. Graduates must then contact the Hub to receive their diploma.

Processional Line-up/Index Card System  

We utilize an index card system which allow you to sit with your friends in any order you prefer.

Important: You will provide information which includes the correct pronunciation of your name, as well as your address for the photographer in order for you to receive proofs of your individual photo. This information is collected through an E-Vite sent directly to you.

Note: For PhD candidates, regarding filling-out your cards/information, please follow instructions from Lawrence Rapp, your commencement coordinator, as to his method of gathering/collecting this information and distributing these index cards to your group. It is important that you have in your hand a completed index card, prior to walking across the stage.

Index Card Pick-Up  

For Masters students, upon arrival at Soldiers and Sailors, visit the check-in tables where you will receive your completed index card with your name, address and correct pronunciation, which you will then carry with you into the Hall and present on-stage when you come up to receive your diploma.

Processional  

You will line up behind two faculty grand marshals in two single-file columns which will extend through the foyer.

The Dean will lead the processional followed by faculty. Once faculty are seated on-stage, the students will enter the hall in two columns led by two designated faculty marshals.

Left Column – At front: PhD students, MSCF students and then MBA
Right Column – MBA students

Keep in mind that those who wish to sit together should line-up in front of/behind each other. Please pay attention to the staff, who will provide further instructions and direct the processional into the building. Ushers inside the hall will then direct you to your seats.

We do not have professional ushers, so please be attentive to the designated people who will be directing you to your row. Please try to stay close to the graduate in front of you.