J&W Commencement > Providence

When does graduate school commencement take place? Thursday, May 17, 2012 at the Providence Performing Arts Center (PPAC) located at 220 Weybosset Street in downtown Providence, R.I. The ceremony begins at 6:45pm. Students should arrive to assembly no later than 6pm.

When does undergraduate commencement take place? Saturday, May 19, 2012, at the Dunkin' Donuts Center (DDC) located at One LaSalle Square in downtown Providence, R.I. The ceremony for the College of Culinary Arts and The Hospitality College begins promptly at 8:45am (students must be assembled no later than 8am). The ceremony for the College of Business and School of Technology begins promptly at 2:45pm (students must be assembled no later than 2pm).

What time do the doors open at the DDC? One hour before each ceremony. Students enter through the back of the DDC on the ground level while family and friends enter through the front doors.

Are tickets needed to attend commencement? No. Students may invite as many friends and family members as they wish.

What about commencement invitations? Personalized commencement announcements may be ordered from the university’s selected vendor, Herff Jones. Orders should be placed in advance to ensure timely receipt. You may also contact either of our two bookstore locations at
401-598-1105 (Downcity) or
401-598-1445 (Harborside).

What about commencement invitations? Personalized commencement announcements may be ordered from the university bookstores, but should be ordered in advance to ensure timely receipt. You may contact either of our two bookstore locations at 401-598-1105 (Downcity) or 401-598-1445 (Harborside).

How long does the commencement ceremony usually last? All ceremonies will last approximately two and one half hours. If you are making luncheon or dinner 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 major and sit with their friends.

Do the students sit in alphabetical order? No. Students are given an index card with their name printed on it when they arrive. This is handed to the person on stage announcing the graduates.

How can I ensure I am listed in the commencement program? The graduation program listing will be made available for student proofing in the months prior to commencement, beginning as early as January for students graduating at the end of the fall tem. All graduates and eligible expected graduates must review the list for first name, last name, middle initial and degree information accuracy and submit their changes by the published deadline. NOTE: There will be no reprints of the graduation program as all graduates and expected graduates have the opportunity to proof their listing in the program as described above.

How are students selected to carry flags during the Parade of Nations? Students interested in carrying a flag of their ancestry, or a favorite nation, should contact the JWU International Office at 401-598-4669. If selected they will have the honor of participating in one of the most unique and special components of the JWU commencement ceremony.

What if I am unable to attend or do not wish to attend the ceremony? No notice is required – plan to attend or not to attend; however, please be sure to review your listing in the commencement program. Prior to leaving campus, be sure to do an exit interview with Student Financial Services and to complete a graduation application via jwuLink.

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 SFS prior to leaving school. After completing the session, students can pick up their cap and gown order form. If the student does not conduct this session, he/she will not receive a cap and gown. Those students who are on co-op will receive their student loan exit counseling paperwork, along with the cap and gown form in the mail. Note: All students — whether they have loans or not — must stop by their campus SFS office to complete the necessary paperwork.

Will the commencement ceremony be videotaped? Yes. Graduation Images will videotape the ceremony and information pertaining to ordering a tape/DVD can be found at www.gradimages.com.

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 Providence 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 are ample private parking facilities in close proximity to PPAC and the DDC and around downtown Providence. Rates will vary.

Is there a special section for wheelchairs at the ceremony? Yes. A limited number of wheelchair-access spaces are available on the concourse level of the DDC (Sections 124 and 106).

Does the DDC provide wheelchairs? No. If a member of your party requires ambulatory assistance you must provide your own wheelchair.

We need your support in making this day even more memorable. The university realizes the significance of this day, and wants to ensure that all students' academic achievements are recognized with respect. To achieve this, students are notified that disorderly conduct, rowdiness, or the presence of alcohol or drugs will be grounds for immediate ejection, and may result in their diploma being retained by the university.

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