Johnson & Wales Commencement

Arrival & Assembly

a note on conduct The University makes every attempt to plan and conduct a meaningful and dignified ceremony. The significance of this day – the recognition of your academic achievements – should be observed with respect.

Disorderly conduct, rowdiness, or the presence of alcohol or drugs will be grounds for immediate ejection and may result in your diploma being retained by the University.

Graduates are advised to use the restroom facilities prior to the start of the ceremony as you will not be permitted to leave your seat once the ceremony begins. You are required to remain seated in the arena throughout the program. Parents, families, friends, and guests are encouraged to follow this example, as leaving the ceremony demonstrates extreme disrespect to all in attendance.

arrival & assembly Students should gather in the foyer of the Communication and Performing Arts Center promptly by 3:30 pm. Line up will be done inside and the graduating class will proceed into the auditorium promptly at 4:00pm. Staff will distribute name cards that will be used by announcers when you receive your degree. Be sure to your have your name card with you before you begin the procession.

the procession Graduation programs will be provided in the graduates' seating area of the Communication and Performing Arts Center. The programs will list the order of exercises. The ceremony will begin with the academic procession. The platform party will begin the procession, followed by the graduates. Students will be seated in the order listed on the program.

conferring of degrees At a certain point during the Commencement, graduates will be asked to stand. They will be formally presented, on behalf of the faculty, to the President of the University. The President will confer the degree upon these individuals and then ask them to be seated.

receiving your diploma At a designated time, graduates will be invited to the platform to receive their diplomas. Ushers will escort you to the platform in a systematic and orderly fashion. Once you reach the platform, you should present your individual name card to the announcer. As your name is read, you will receive your diploma, and then proceed to center stage to greet the President. At this time, associate degree graduates will also receive a culinary medal. After that, proceed down the staircase and promptly return to your seat as directed by the ushers.

benediction & recession The ceremony concludes with the benediction. Graduates are to stand as the stage party leaves the Communication and Performing Arts Center. You will be directed by the ushers for a swift and orderly exit. Do not leave the auditorium until directed by an usher.

getting your degree The detail printed on your degree will be based on the information we have on file. It is your responsibility to make sure that the information in your file is correct. Our goal is to provide all graduates their diploma at the ceremony on May 18, 2006. In order to do this, you must address all financial obligations and required financial aid paperwork by May 1, 2006.

We recognize that some graduates have payment plans extending until June. If you cannot mae your final payment by May 1, 2006, your diploma will be held until you have completed the financial process and then your diploma will be mailed to the address provided on the graduation application.

guest seating Seating is unlimited on graduation day. There is limited handicapped seating available. Please call the Student Affairs Office at 757-853-3508 x222 to make further arrangements for accommodations. To ensure a smooth ceremony, guests are asked to enter the main doors of the Communication and Performing Arts Center and proceed directly to their seats, and not linger in the lobby area with the graduates.

unable to attend? Although it is traditional to graduate by attending Commencement, there may be circumstances that prevent you from attending the ceremony. If you have completed all graduation requirements, but are unable to attend, you are still considered a member of this graduating class.