We have been receiving several inquiries concerning the procedures and protocols for Graduation Day.  This message is intended to answer those questions. 

SECURITY - This year’s graduation will follow the routine used in non-Presidential years.  There will be no metal detectors.  Other than the normal prohibitions (weapons), there are no restrictions on what you can carry into the ceremony, such as bottled water.

TICKETS – NO TICKETS ARE REQUIRED TO ATTEND THE OUTDOOR GRADUATION.  Commencement is an open event, and no tickets are required.  In the event of inclement weather, the Commencement Ceremonies will take place in O’Hara Hall, where seating will be limited.  As has always been the case, each member of the graduating class will receive 4 tickets for admission to that event. 

PARKING – ALL PARKING WILL BE ON CAMPUS AND ON ADJACENT LOCAL STREETS.  All visitors will be directed by DPS personnel to open parking areas.  There will be no parking in remote lots, and shuttle buses are not required.

COURTESY CARTS – We will set up a courtesy cart shuttle for Monday, 18 June, using three, six-person golf carts.  The service will run between parking areas and the stands, and will run before and after the ceremony.  Exact times will be announced in a subsequent email.

SEATING FOR WHEELCHAIRS AND DISABLED GUESTS – There are 49 seats / locations for wheelchairs and disabled guests in the front rows of the bleachers.  As in past years, they are available on a first-come, first-served basis.  Individuals using Larks or other motorized carts are welcomed to park their carts on the grass immediately in front of the bleachers, and watch the ceremonies from that location.

HEARING IMPAIRED GUESTS – A sign-language presenter will be located in front of the bleachers, and we will designate a portion of the seating area for those with hearing impairments.  Seating in this area will be limited, so please respect the needs of others and sit in this location only if necessary.

WEBCAST – The ceremony will be “simulcast” over the intranet into Ackerman Auditorium, regardless of weather.  In the event the weather is too hot, elderly guests and those susceptible to the heat and sun are welcomed to watch the broadcast in Ackerman.  In the event of inclement weather, overflow guests from O’Hara Hall will be invited to watch in Ackerman Auditorium, as well as other locations on campus.  NO TICKETS WILL BE REQUIRED FOR ACKERMAN SEATING.  The ceremony will also be broadcast on the web; more information will follow.

 

More details will follow