Arrival Instructions

Please review this information carefully — it is given in place of a practice session. Your cooperation with and understanding of what is expected of you will guarantee a smooth, enjoyable ceremony for you, your family, and guests. All ceremonies last about two and one half hours.

Before Arrival:

1. Review the order of exercises
2. Put on your cap and gown properly (review steps 4-5) before arriving at the venue.
3. Leave coats, valuables and other items with parents, friends or guests (you will not be able to store any personal belongings at the venue).
4. Use rest room facilities; you will not be permitted to leave your seats once the ceremony begins.

Upon Arrival to the Dunkin’ Donuts Center:

1. Enter through the lower level receiving entrance on the West Exchange Street side of the building and go immediately to the Exhibition Hall.
2. Pick up your name card, which will be used to announce your name as you cross the stage.
3. Once you have your name card, assemble with your college (follow the signs in the Exhibition Hall to the area reserved for your college).
4. You will then line up to form the academic procession with your faculty.
5. Make sure you have your name card with you before you begin the procession.
6. Remain seated in the audience throughout the program.

Upon Arrival to the Providence Performing Arts Center (PPAC):

1. Enter through the doors on the side of the building, located on Page Street (on the street between PPAC and Snowden, to the left of the main entrance).
2. Pick up your name card, which will be used to announce your name as you cross the stage.
3. Once you have your name card, assemble with your degree and major (follow signs).
4. You will then line up to form the academic procession with your faculty.
5. Make sure you have your name card with you before you begin the procession.
6. Remain seated in the audience throughout the program.

Is there a way to know where I will be sitting? Do graduates sit in alphabetical order? There is no assigned seating; graduates are not seated alphabetically. Students march in and are seated by college/major. Once seated, you and your guests may communicate via text message with each other to determine your locations — please do this before and not during the ceremony.

A Note on Conduct
The university makes every attempt to plan and conduct a meaningful, 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.

If you have any further questions, call 401-598-4746.