Commencement

Spring 2024 Commencement will be held on May 11. 

The ceremonies will last approximately two hours. The rain date is Sunday, May 12.

Where

Students must park in the Copernicus Parking Garage.

Line-up on the soccer field, located next to the football field.

If you are getting dropped off, the best location is the rotary next to Copernicus Parking Garage off Wells Street.

The ceremony takes place on the football field.

Only guests with disabilities are permitted to park in the Kaiser Lot at Arute Stadium. The stadium is accessible and the Kaiser Lot will have additional spaces.

What to Bring

Dress according to weather. If sunny, bring sunglasses, sunscreen, etc.

Please wear appropriate footwear. You will be walking on grass, turf, asphalt, and staging.

Water stations will be on site for graduates. Water for purchase will be available for guests.

No alcoholic beverages permitted.

Guidance and Regulations
For Students Walking at Commencement/Graduation on May 11, 2024

How do I obtain my Graduation Pass to walk across the stage at commencement?

1. Upon arrival at the soccer stadium all students planning to participate in the commencement ceremonies will first go to the Student Check–In Tent and show a photo ID (Central ID / Driver’s License) for verification of their name.
2. After verification is completed, each student will receive their Official Graduation Pass that is required to walk across the stage. Your Graduation Pass includes your name as it will be announced during the ceremony.
3. Any student who does not arrive with a photo ID will be redirected to the Student Services Line to be verified through the University Banner System before receiving a Graduation Pass .
4. When the ceremonies begin, each student will present their Graduation Pass to the Central Administrative Usher as they prepare to walk across the stage.

What is permitted and what is not permitted?

Permissible:

1. All students who participate in commencement must wear regalia. All commencement regalia will conform with the Central standard color and design. The Central standards consist of a solid black robe that extends to the ankle. Regalia must be worn during the entire ceremony.
2. All students should have a Mortar Board (hat).
   1. Mortar Board decorations are permitted.
3. Cords are permitted.
4. Shoulder Stoles are permitted.
   1. Size limit for stoles: Each side, max 30" long and max 4" wide.
5. Flat shoes are encouraged.
6. Only clear water bottles are permitted (no personal containers).
7. Small purses are permitted.
8. Flowers/bouquets are permitted.

Non-Permissible:

1. No Posters.
2. No noise makers/megaphones.
3. No Flags or Banners will be permitted to be draped over regalia or carried.
4. No Regalia that does not conform with university standards/style.
5. No Backpacks.
6. No floats/ballons/beachballs.
7. No drinking containers other than clear water bottles (no personal containers).
8. No coolers
9. No smoking or vaping.
10. No interruptions or disruptions.
11. No umbrellas.

Please note that an individual or group activity that interrupts or disrupts the normal progression of the ceremonies is not permitted and is in violation of the student code of conduct and System Office policy. Individuals violating these rules may be subject to disciplinary action, including up to expulsion from the University. These individuals may also be subject to arrest for criminal trespass, pursuant to Connecticut General Statue 53A-107 Criminal Trespass. Additionally, any individual who is in violation of these rules may immediately be removed from the event.

No firearms, weapons or alcoholic beverages are permitted on the premises.

Guidance and Regulations
For Family, Friends, and Visitors at Commencement/Graduation on May 11, 2024

Please click here for information