The University of Georgia's (UGA) graduation ceremonies for 2023 are a culmination of hard work and dedication for the graduating class. The university has announced the dates and details for the upcoming commencement exercises, which will take place on Friday, May 12, 2023, for graduate students and on Saturday, May 13, 2023, for undergraduate students. The ceremonies will be held at Sanford Stadium, the home of the Georgia Bulldogs football team, providing a unique and memorable experience for the graduates and their families.
Graduation Schedule and Details
The graduation schedule for UGA’s 2023 commencement exercises is as follows:
- Friday, May 12, 2023: Graduate ceremony at 10:00 a.m. at Sanford Stadium
- Saturday, May 13, 2023: Undergraduate ceremony at 7:30 p.m. at Sanford Stadium
Graduation Ticket Information
Tickets are not required for the graduation ceremonies, and seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. However, the university does offer a limited number of special needs seating areas for guests with mobility impairments. These seats can be reserved in advance by contacting the UGA Disability Resource Center. Graduates are limited to a maximum of 10 guest seats in the special needs seating areas. The university also offers a live stream of the commencement exercises for those who cannot attend in person.
| Graduation Ceremony | Date and Time | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Graduate Ceremony | Friday, May 12, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. | Sanford Stadium |
| Undergraduate Ceremony | Saturday, May 13, 2023, at 7:30 p.m. | Sanford Stadium |
Graduation Ceremony Protocol
The graduation ceremony will follow a traditional protocol, with the procession of graduates, faculty, and dignitaries, followed by the conferring of degrees and the recognition of outstanding students. The ceremony will also include a keynote address by a distinguished guest speaker. Academic regalia is required for all graduates participating in the ceremony. The university’s bookstore will be selling academic regalia, including caps, gowns, and hoods, for graduates who have not already purchased theirs.
Graduation Parking and Shuttle Information
Parking for the graduation ceremonies will be available in various lots around campus, including the North Campus Parking Deck, the South Campus Parking Deck, and the Carlton Street Parking Deck. The university will also be offering a shuttle service from the parking decks to Sanford Stadium. The shuttle service will run continuously from two hours prior to the start of each ceremony until one hour after the ceremony ends. Graduates and their guests are encouraged to use the shuttle service to avoid traffic and parking congestion.
In addition to the shuttle service, the university will also have a designated drop-off and pick-up area for graduates and their guests with mobility impairments. This area will be located near the stadium entrance and will be clearly marked with signs. The university's parking and transportation staff will be available to assist graduates and their guests with any questions or concerns they may have.
What time do the stadium gates open for the graduation ceremonies?
+The stadium gates will open two hours prior to the start of each ceremony. For the graduate ceremony on Friday, May 12, 2023, the gates will open at 8:00 a.m. For the undergraduate ceremony on Saturday, May 13, 2023, the gates will open at 5:30 p.m.
Are tickets required for the graduation ceremonies?
+No, tickets are not required for the graduation ceremonies. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Will the graduation ceremonies be live streamed?
+Yes, the university will offer a live stream of the commencement exercises for those who cannot attend in person. The live stream will be available on the university's website and will begin at the start of each ceremony.
Graduation Ceremony Security
The university takes the safety and security of its graduates and their guests very seriously. Security checks will be in place at all stadium entrances, and graduates and their guests are encouraged to arrive early to account for any delays. The university also recommends that graduates and their guests be aware of their surroundings and report any suspicious activity to security personnel. Prohibited items, including bags, umbrellas, and outside food and drink, will not be allowed in the stadium.
Graduation Ceremony Accommodations
The university is committed to providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for all graduates and their guests. Accommodations are available for graduates and guests with disabilities, including wheelchair-accessible seating, sign language interpretation, and audio description. Graduates and their guests who require accommodations should contact the UGA Disability Resource Center in advance to make arrangements.
In conclusion, the University of Georgia’s 2023 graduation ceremonies promise to be a memorable and celebratory experience for the graduating class and their families. With a clear understanding of the graduation schedule, ticket information, ceremony protocol, parking and shuttle information, and security measures in place, graduates and their guests can focus on enjoying this special moment. The university’s commitment to providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for all ensures that every graduate and their guests will have a positive and enjoyable experience.
