Student Instructions

Commencement Grad Walks
Events Center
Thursday, May 13, 2021 - Sunday, May 16, 2021

Undergraduate/graduate student instructions

Congratulations to you, the Class of 2021! We look forward to celebrating your achievements with you! Please read these instructions carefully.

Before you arrive

  • Please make sure your guests have their tickets before the event.
  • Make sure you and your guests have your validation information (negative test or full vaccination proof) before you get to Check-In.
    • Guests can check-in at the front of the Events Center, with their negative test or full vaccination proof up to one hour before your Grad Walk; doors will open 30 minutes prior to your Grad Walk.
  • Make sure you tell your guests to meet you off-campus after the event.
    • If you or your guests are staying on campus following the Grad Walk, cars must be moved to the M lots immediately after your Grad Walk.
  • Bring your regalia with you if you are wearing it at your Grad Walk.
  • You will not be sitting in your seat after the stage crossing, so please leave valuables at home.

When you arrive

  • Please arrive approximately 30 minutes before the ceremony begins to Lot G (parking lot behind the West Gym).
  • You may park in Lot G1, but again you must move your vehicle IMMEDIATELY after your Grad Walk so the next group of graduates can park.
  • Check in at the “Check-In” tent in Lot G, then proceed to the “Line Queue Tent” - there will be signs and volunteers to direct you.
  • Masters students will be lined up to enter the EC in the front, and UG students will follow. Please pay attention to the signage and volunteers directing you.

During the ceremony

  • The Dean of your school will welcome you and give brief remarks
  • President Stenger or Provost Nieman will congratulate you
  • Ushers will guide you and the others in your row of seats to approach the stage
  • You will walk toward the stage, scan your name card and receive a diploma cover.
  • You will then ascend the stairs and hand your name card to the name reader.
  • Next, walk forward to get your photo with the Dean and President. There will be socially distant YELLOW marks on stage for you to stand.
  • Walk across the stage and then carefully descend the platform then make a left to exit the EC
  • Pause at the backdrop for another photo.
  • Continue on to exit the Events Center and plan to exit the premises completely so we can flip the Events Center for the next group.

Additional info for your guests

  • Anyone attending a Commencement ceremony (Grad Walk) this spring, must abide by the additional guidance in order to enter the venue. Please make sure your guests are prepared by visiting binghamton.edu/commencement.
  • Masks must be worn at all times even for photos on stage.