All of Your Commencement Questions Answered

Commencement is fast approaching, and you may still have questions about what to wear, the ceremonies happening, and what time everything starts. Here's a comprehensive SUU Graduation Q&A!

Q: Where do I go to get my cap and gown, and can someone else get it for me? 

A: You can pick up your regalia at the R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center during Grad Fair / Grad Fest. If you're unable to attend in person, you must complete the official online Regalia Authorization Form to designate a friend, family member, or classmate to pick it up on your behalf. 

Q: Are there different gowns for different degrees?

A: Yes. Associate's degree regalia includes dark blue gown, dark blue cap and white tassel. Bachelor's degree regalia includes black gown, black cap and tassel (color of tassel corresponds with academic college). Master's degree regalia includes a black gown that differs from the bachelor's robe, black cap, black tassel and hood (color of hood corresponds with master's degree program).

Q: What should I wear under my graduation gown?

A: You should wear business casual clothing under your graduation gown. The fabric isn't very thick, so what you're wearing underneath will be noticeable.

Q: If I'm a Master's candidate, when should I wear my hood?

A: Master's degree regalia includes a black gown that differs from the bachelor's robe, black cap, black tassel and hood (color of hood corresponds with master's degree program). Bring your hood to your college convocation, but you will keep it draped over your arm until a member of your program does the official hooding.

Q: How much does my cap and gown cost, and do I get to keep it? 

SUU provides one essential regalia package (cap, gown, tassel, and Master's hood if applicable) free of charge to all graduating students. All items are yours to keep and do not need to be returned. Optional add-ons, such as specialty stoles or souvenir tassels, can be purchased separately if desired. 

Q: When does my college’s ceremony start?

A: A full schedule of SUU Commencement Ceremonies can be found here.

Q: Where and when is my college meeting for the lineup?

A: Graduates should arrive for line-up one hour early, in graduation regalia, for both the University Commencement Ceremony and your college convocation. Line-up typically begins outside the America First Event Center (AFEC) tunnel—be sure to check the official convocation line-up map for your specific program's location. In the event of inclement weather, staff will direct graduates to designated nearby indoor locations.

Q: Can I (or my family) bring bags/purses to the ceremonies?

A: We encourage graduates and guests to leave large bags, backpacks, and purses at home or in their car.

Q: What do I do if a member of my family is graduating in a different college than me?

A: Graduates who have spouses or immediate family members graduating in different colleges may request to have their degrees awarded in the same college. Requests must be made no later than the Tuesday before commencement at 5 p.m. The graduate wishing to switch his/her college convocation ceremony must make the request by emailing graduation@suu.edu 

Q: Will photos of the ceremonies be available?

A: Yes! A professional photographer from Island Photography will be taking photographs of each graduate as they are recognized at the college convocations. Within 48 hours after your college convocation, you will be emailed a secure link and a PIN to view and order your photos. Register the emails of family and friends so they receive a direct link to your proofs. Questions? Call 800.869.0908 or email custserv@islandphoto.com

Q: Where can I get flowers for a graduate?

A: Floral bouquets, leis, and commemorative commencement t-shirts/sweatshirts are available for purchase at booths located around the America First Event Center on commencement day. For a quicker, contact-free experience, you can pre-order flowers and gifts online through the official SUU Commencement Store and pick them up at any on-site booth 

Q: Where do I get tickets for commencement?

A: Tickets are not required for SUU’s Commencement festivities.

Q: Is there specified parking for commencement services?

A: Parking for graduates and guests is free; all campus lots will be open.

 

 

Tags: Graduation