Stanford University's graduation ceremony is a significant event that marks the culmination of a student's academic journey. The ceremony, also known as Commencement, is a time-honored tradition that brings together students, faculty, family, and friends to celebrate the achievements of the graduating class. The event is typically held in June and takes place on the Stanford University campus. The ceremony is a grand affair, with thousands of guests in attendance, and is steeped in tradition and pageantry.
Pre-Commencement Activities
Before the main Commencement ceremony, Stanford University hosts a range of pre-Commencement activities, including departmental ceremonies, diploma ceremonies, and other special events. These activities provide an opportunity for students to celebrate with their peers, faculty, and family in a more intimate setting. The pre-Commencement activities are often organized by individual departments or schools within the university and may include receptions, luncheons, or other gatherings.
Commencement Ceremony Details
The main Commencement ceremony is a formal event that takes place on the Stanford University campus. The ceremony typically begins with a procession of faculty, staff, and graduating students, led by the university’s president and other dignitaries. The procession is followed by a series of speeches, including remarks by the university president, a commencement speaker, and a student speaker. The ceremony also includes the conferring of degrees, with students being called to the stage to receive their diplomas.
The Commencement ceremony is a formal event, and students are expected to wear traditional academic regalia, including caps, gowns, and hoods. The ceremony is also a ticketed event, with guests required to have tickets to attend. The university provides a limited number of tickets to each graduating student, and guests are encouraged to arrive early to secure seating.
In addition to the main Commencement ceremony, Stanford University also hosts a range of other events and activities, including a Baccalaureate ceremony, which is a non-denominational service that celebrates the graduating class, and a Senior Dinner, which is a special event for graduating seniors and their guests.
| Event | Date | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commencement Ceremony | Mid-June | 9:30 am | Stanford Stadium |
| Baccalaureate Ceremony | Mid-June | 10:00 am | Memorial Church |
| Senior Dinner | Mid-June | 6:00 pm | Various locations |
Traditions and Customs
Stanford University’s Commencement ceremony is steeped in tradition and custom. The ceremony includes a range of time-honored rituals, including the singing of the national anthem, the alma mater, and the school song. The ceremony also includes the presentation of honorary degrees to distinguished individuals who have made significant contributions to their fields.
The university also has a number of other traditions and customs associated with Commencement, including the Wacky Walk, which is a lighthearted procession of graduating students, and the Dollies, which are decorative covers that are placed on the university's statues to celebrate the graduating class.
The Commencement ceremony is also an opportunity for the university to recognize the achievements of its graduating students, including those who have received academic honors, awards, and other forms of recognition. The ceremony is a celebration of the graduating class and their accomplishments, and is an important milestone in the university's academic calendar.
Logistical Arrangements
The Commencement ceremony requires careful logistical arrangements, including parking, seating, and security. The university provides a range of services and amenities to support guests, including wheelchair accessibility, sign language interpretation, and real-time captioning.
Guests are encouraged to arrive early to secure parking and seating, and to be prepared for security checks and other logistical arrangements. The university also provides a range of dining and accommodation options for guests, including on-campus restaurants and hotels.
- Parking: available in designated lots and garages
- Seating: available on a first-come, first-served basis
- Security: includes bag checks and metal detectors
- Wheelchair accessibility: available throughout the campus
- Sign language interpretation: available upon request
- Real-time captioning: available upon request
What time does the Commencement ceremony start?
+The Commencement ceremony typically starts at 9:30 am.
Where can I park for the Commencement ceremony?
+Parking is available in designated lots and garages throughout the campus.
Can I request special accommodations for the Commencement ceremony?
+Yes, the university provides a range of special accommodations, including wheelchair accessibility, sign language interpretation, and real-time captioning. Guests are encouraged to request these services in advance.
