Information for the Day of Commencement

Fall Commencement ceremony will take place at 4 p.m., Friday, December 13, at Dr. Michael I. Schafer Theater in Wilcox Hall on our Utica Campus.

Parking

Parking is available in all MVCC lots, free of charge.

Guidelines for Dress and Behavior

Use common sense and dress appropriately for the occasion. No alcoholic beverages are permitted anywhere in MVCC facilities. Any alcohol will be confiscated prior to and during the ceremony. Behavior during the ceremony is expected to be mature and in line with the dignity of the occasion. Texting and cell phone use is prohibited during the ceremony.

Arrival Time

Graduates: You should be at the Francis A. Wilcox Hall by 3:00 p.m. Proceed into the first level lobby and look for a sign indicating your academic major. A faculty member will help to line graduates up in alphabetical order and give you a card with your name on it.

Please Note: All candidates must be in cap and gown, in proper order, by 3:45 p.m.

Guests of Graduates: Find your seats in the theater. Tickets are required. Please have your ticket ready from your graduate in order to gain access into Schafer Theater. Each graduate is limited to no more than 3 people.

Processional

Commencement marshals will lead graduates to the proper row of seats. Please remove hats and remain standing through the National Anthem and Pledge of Allegiance.

Presentation of Class

Vice President Lew Kahler will present the Class to President Randall VanWagoner. Graduates should stand during this presentation. After the presentation, Commencement marshals will lead rows of graduates to the stage. Please remain seated until your row is called.

When Graduates Reach the Stage

Graduates, when you reach the podium, hand your card to the Dean, and wait for your name to be called. Then, walk across stage to receive your diploma cover. Continue walking across stage and a Commencement marshal will guide you back to your row of seats. Please remain standing until everyone in your row is back, and then be seated.

Recessional

Remain standing until your row is led out by the Commencement marshal. Proceed out at a normal walking pace, following the direction of the marshal.

Diploma

The cover that graduates receive from President VanWagoner will be empty. All diplomas will be mailed within six to eight weeks after the ceremony.

Event Livestream

This commencement ceremony will be livestreamed at mvcc.edu/live