Graduates: Graduates need to report to the Albert Lorenzo Cultural Center (K Bldg) at Center Campus by 6:15 p.m. Bring only your cap and gown - leave all personal belongings, coat, purse, cameras, etc. with your guests. You will be given a card indicating your name, degree, and honors status (if applicable). During the ceremony each graduate will hand their card to a College academic representative as they approach the stage so that their name may be announced. The honors status categories are:
- Cum Laude = 3.25 - 3.49
- Magna Cum Laude = 3.50 - 3.74
- Summa Cum Laude = 3.75 and above
Honors status during the commencement ceremony is based upon the overall grade point average at the time the card bearing your name and degree is printed (approximately two weeks prior to the commencement ceremony). Actual honors will be posted on your diploma. The gold honor cord, signifying your honors status will be distributed in the registration / robing room so you may wear the cord during the ceremony.
Tassel: Keep on the right side of cap until instructed to move to the left.
Honors Cord: If a student has an honors status, (Cum Laude, Magna Cum Laude or Summa Cum Laude) their status will be announced with their name. The gold cord will be distributed in the robing room so that the graduate may wear the cord during the ceremony.
Processional: Graduates will line up for the commencement procession according to their degree. Marshals will lead the procession which begins promptly at 6:45 p.m.
Guests: Guests will go directly to the Macomb Center for the Perfomring Arts (Center Campus). They will need to present their admission ticket, and seating is on an open basis. The doors will be open at 6:00 pm.
Handicapped Seating: Limited handicapped seating will be available. Please arrive early. Due to limited space only one family member is permitted to sit with those who require handicapped seating.
Sign Language Interpreter: A sign language interpreter will be on stage (Audience Left/Aisle 1). Please ask to be seated accordingly should you require this service.
Photos:As a courtesy to the other guests and a safety precaution, we request that guests do not leave their seats to take pictures of the graduates during the ceremony. Professional photos of the graduates will be taken and will be available for purchase through the contracted photographer. Two photos will be taken; the first as the graduate walks across the stage and receives his/her certificate and the second, off stage with diploma cover in hand. After the ceremony, there will be the opportunity for professional portraits with family members.
Diplomas: The College will mail all diplomas approximately 6 - 8 weeks after the semester.
Recessional: After the ceremony the graduates will follow the marshals and recess to the reception area in the Albert Lorenzo Cultural Center (K Bldg); guests will follow.
Reception: Graduates and guests are invited to enjoy a reception of light desserts and refreshments in the reception area in the Albert Lorenzo Cultural Center immediately following the ceremony.