Commencement Info for Graduating Seniors
Deadlines before the weekend
March 11: Order caps and gowns online. Contact the Bookstore for late orders.
April 17: Submit a one-line gratitude for Baccalaureate online.
May 9: Purchase extra Commencement Brunch tickets if needed (you will receive three tickets with your diploma). Tickets through Bon Appétit.
May 10: Pre-register your email with GradImages for your official photos.
Senior Reception, Friday, 4:30-6 p.m.
Celebration with faculty and staff, hosted by the Alumni Office. Enjoy appetizers, drinks, and special announcements.
Where: Smith Dining Room, Thomas Commons
Dress code: Business casual
Baccalaureate–Saturday at 3 p.m.
Service with readings, reflections from the Chaplain and a graduate, words of gratitude from your peers (submit yours by April 19), and a keepsake.
When: Saturday, 3 p.m.; arrive at 2:30 p.m.
Where: Gym for lineup, then process to seats in the SAW Arena
Dress code: Academic gown (no cap)
Commencement Ceremony–Sunday,10 a.m.-noon
Sit with friends. Ceremony includes student and faculty speakers nominated by graduates. Pick up diploma and brunch tickets immediately following the ceremony.
When: Sunday, 10 a.m. to noon; arrive at 9 a.m.
Where: Gym to pick up name card and line up with friends, then process to seats in the SAW arena
Dress code: Academic gown and cap
Brunch–Sunday, noon–1:30 p.m.
Each graduate gets three free tickets when they pick up their diploma. Additional tickets available for purchase in advance or at the door. Cash bar.
Where: Hilltop Café, Thomas Commons
Additional information
Stoles and cords: Wear any respectful stole or cord. Provided by some organizations and honor societies. Cords are not provided for all-college honors.
Following the ceremony: Faculty will congregate at the back of the arena in five academic divisions marked by signs: Math and Natural Sciences, Social Sciences, Humanities, Fine Arts, and Interdisciplinary Programs.
Social media: Share your graduation moments using #CornellCGrad.
Photos and video clip: Professional photos by GradImages. Proofs sent within five days. Pre-register your email with GradImages for a discount. Every graduate receives a video clip of themselves as they cross the stage (or as their name is read if they cannot attend). Clips are emailed within 48 hours.
Residence hall checkout: 5 p.m. May 11
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