Johnson & Wales Commencement > Denver

When does the Denver Campus commencement take place? Saturday, May 19, 2012, on the Coors Family Commons, 7150 Montview Blvd., Denver, Colorado. The processional begins at 8:45am and the ceremony begins at 9am. Graduates must arrive at 8am for line up. The Coors Family Commons seating area will open at 7:30am for guests.

What are the criteria for having my name included in the 2012 commencement program? For participation in the May 2012 commencement ceremony and inclusion in the commencement program, degree seeking students must fall into one of the following categories as well as complete their graduation application on jwuLink:

Awarded degree in the fall 2011 or winter 2011-2012 terms.
Enrolled in the spring term and have an expected graduation date of spring 2012, summer 2012 or fall 2012.

Are tickets needed to attend commencement? No. There is no limit to the number of guests who may attend. Seating is not assigned, nor reserved, and it is not covered. Please plan accordingly as this is an outdoor ceremony. Handicapped accommodations are available. Staff members will be able to help those who need assistance to and from the seating area.

What about commencement invitations? Personalized commencement announcements may be ordered from Herff-Jones, but should be ordered in advance to ensure timely receipt.

How long does the commencement ceremony usually last? The ceremony will last approximately one and one half hours to two hours. If you are making luncheon reservations, please allow some extra time to be on the safe side.

Is there a way to know where I will be sitting? There is no assigned seating. Students march in with others by degree candidacy and sit with their friends.

Do the students sit in alphabetical order? No. Students are given an index card when they check-in that they will print their name and phonetic pronunciation on. This is handed to the person on stage announcing the graduates as they cross the stage.

What is a Student Loan Exit Counseling Session? What does completing the information have to do with picking up my cap and gown? Students with student loans are required to complete an exit counseling session with SAFS prior to leaving school. After completing the session, students will be cleared to pick up their cap and gown. If the student does not conduct this session, he/she will not receive a cap and gown.

Note: All students — whether they have loans or not — must stop by their campus SAFS office to complete the necessary paperwork.

Are photos taken of students receiving their diplomas? Yes. Graduation Images will be taking photos of each student and will contact the student directly with the opportunity to purchase photos. Students are under no obligation to buy the photos. For more information about photos, go to www.gradimages.com.

Do students receive their diplomas at commencement? No. Graduates and expected graduates receive a diploma cover containing a letter from the president of the Denver Campus. Upon degree completion, official diplomas are mailed to the address specified on the student's graduation application (submitted applications are viewable in jwuLink, which also serves to ensure the student's name is spelled correctly.

Is parking available for commencement ceremonies? There is limited parking available in the campus lots. The university works with the City of Denver regarding time restrictions on the neighborhood streets, however guests of the university should always respect traffic laws as well as not block driveways. The parking lot located across from Aspen Hall at 18th and Pontiac streets is reserved for vehicles needing accessible parking.

Is there a special section for wheelchairs at the ceremony? Yes. There is a seating area located near the stage as well as sidewalks. Staff members will be able to help those who need assistance to and from the seating area.

If you have any further questions, call 303-256-9400 or email graduation.den@jwu.edu.