Getting there
Please refer to the directions and parking page for more information.
Guest Arrival
Guests are welcome to start arriving any time after 1 p.m. Unless otherwise marked, all seating is available.
Student line-up
Graduates should line up according to program at 1:30 p.m. on the Fifth Avenue Streetscape (between Marston and Weter). If students are participating in a Hooding ceremony or program gathering, prior to the Commencement ceremony, a staff member will direct them to the Streetscape.
Livestream
The ceremony will be recorded for livestreaming purposes and will be available for viewing on the livestreaming page. The recording of the ceremony will also be posted on this page, but may not be available until a week or so afterward. No other videographers are allowed in any aisle or near the platform.
Rain plan
A rain plan is in place and will go into effect if there is a forecast for severe weather, including heavy rain and/or thunder and lightning. Students will receive a notification if the rain plan is put into action.
Photography
Grad Images is the official photography company for Commencement. They will take a photograph of each graduate receiving his or her diploma, and graduates will receive a proof in the mail shortly after the ceremony. You can contact the company at 1-800-628-4509, or by visiting gradimages.com. No other photographers are allowed in any aisle or near the platform.
ADA seating
For guests using a wheelchair or walker, or who need a seat close to the sidewalk, please contact graduationinfo@spu.edu. We can make arrangements for a few companion seats as well.
ADA drop-off
We recommend pulling into the Ross parking lot, directly behind Subway (off of 3rd Ave. W.) to drop off your guests before parking your car.
Sign interpretation
There will be sign interpretation at the Graduate Commencement ceremony. If you have a guest that needs to be seated close to the interpreter, please contact graduationinfo@spu.edu.
Flowers & leis
There is no official flower vendor, but frequently there is someone selling flowers and leis on the sidewalk near the opening to Tiffany Loop. To be safe, we recommend purchasing flowers in advance, before you come to campus.
Food & beverages
A number of campus dining options, selling hot beverages, snacks, and meals, will be open.
Bookstore
The SPU Bookstore will be open 8:30 a.m.–7 p.m. They will have any remaining regalia (caps, gowns, hoods, and stoles) available for purchase.