Commencement Home

Graduating? Just ensure the steps below are completed!

On Friday, May 10 at 4:30 p.m., Commencement will be held for the Class of 2024 at The Adirondack Bank Center, 400 Oriskany St. W, Utica, NY, 13502, for all degree and certificate candidates (May and August).

Haven't applied yet? Apply For Graduation

Day of Commencement

We're looking forward to celebrating with you! Please make your way to the Adirondack Bank Center's entrance level by 3 p.m. Simply follow the signs, and they'll lead you straight to the Student Check-In Tables. Here, you'll pick up your Graduation Name Card. Next, you'll be guided to your designated line-of-march area. Keep an eye out for wall posters that match your academic major - they'll show you exactly where to go. Our friendly Commencement Marshals will then help organize everyone for the processional. The ceremony will kick off shortly after!

To ensure everyone's enjoyment of this special day, we ask that you please leave all alcoholic beverages and outside food/drink at home. This rule helps us keep the Adirondack Bank Center a welcoming place for all. Thank you for understanding and cooperating!

Diplomas

When you receive your diploma cover from President VanWagoner, it'll be like a promise – a placeholder, as your actual diploma will be safely making its way to you in the mail. Please expect it to arrive within six to eight weeks after the ceremony.

Caps and Gowns/Tassels

Prepare to proudly wear MVCC's school colors! Your commencement attire, including a cap, gown, and tassel, awaits you at the College Store located on our Utica Campus. Collection begins on Monday, April 22, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., available Monday through Friday. Please remember to bring your student ID, as it is required to receive your commencement attire at no cost.

If you are unable to visit in person to collect your gown, there is no need for concern. Simply send an email to the MVCC Bookstore at bookstore@mvcc.edu, and we will be pleased to arrange an alternative solution for you.

Professional Photography

To find a Graduate's professional photo, visit Genessee Photo Systems Website

Accommodations

There is a block of hotel rooms setup on both May 9th & May 10th at both Hampton Inn in Utica and TownePlace in New Hartford with a discounted rate of $159/night.

Restaurants

Students will receive 15% off their total bill when they show their diploma cover at the following restaurants. Please note reservations are highly encouraged; seating for walk-ins cannot be guaranteed.

Livestream

Livestream of the ceremony will be available at

mvcc.edu/live

Commencement Speaker

Charles Green

Charles Green is the President, CEO and Co-Founder of Assured Information Security, Inc. (AIS), a cyber-focused company established in 2001. AIS is headquartered strategically in Rome, New York, in close proximity to the Air Force Research Laboratory/Information Directorate (AFRL).

With more than two decades of expertise in Department of Defense information operations (IO) and information assurance (IA) research and development, Green has been at the forefront of safeguarding critical military and civil information systems. His journey began in 1997 when he joined AFRL’s Information Warfare Team (IWT), paving the way for AIS to become a stalwart supporter of AFRL's cyber mission.

Alumni of Merit Winner

Marianne Buttenschon

Dr. Marianne Buttenschon '81 received the 2024 Alumni of Merit Award, presented annually to a nominee who has contributed to the improvement of the community, helped the College, and otherwise demonstrated professional leadership that symbolizes MVCC's mission of student success and community involvement.

Buttenschon is the New York State Assemblywoman for the 119th District and serves on the agriculture, banks, economic development, education, higher education, and veterans affairs committees.