Commencement Instructions to Graduates

What, Where, and When for Classes 2020 & 2021

REMEMBER: Everyone has to stay 6 feet apart, so the walk will be long this year! Wear comfy shoes. And don’t forget that mask – everyone must be masked at all times, even on stage. Don’t worry about water or having to carry anything extra with you – there will be a water bottle waiting for everyone at their seat.

What is the procession & ceremony going to be like this year?

• Maroon and White lines will enter through the Northeast gate onto Peyton Field. You should maintain 6-feet distance between each other during the procession. 
• You will descend steps to Lower Baker - east and west of the stage and fill into your seats (standard bearers and your faculty marshals will be there to help).  
• When it is your turn to go on stage, you will pick up your diploma cover from the table directly to your left as you step onto the Commencement stage. 
• Stop momentarily at the marked "X". President Crawford can’t do handshakes, you can definitely do: air high fives, air fist bumps, peace signs, other appropriate social distanced moves. 
• You will then exit down the east stairs to Lower Baker Field and return to your seat. 
• Graduate students: You will be hooded on stage by your graduate program faculty. Graduate students will pick up a diploma cover, as well. You must drape your hood over your arm as you come up stage, and hand to one faculty member, who will position it and hand to second faculty member. A second faculty member will then place your hood over your head. You will be acknowledged by President Crawford and then exit down the east stairs to Lower Baker Field and return to your seat.
• There will be photographers there to capture pictures of each graduate.
• The ceremonies will proceed outdoors rain or shine. Ponchos will be provided to students and guests in case of rain during the ceremony.

In the case of hazardous weather (such as lightning, threat of lighting, and/or high winds) and attendees are evacuated from the venue, all updates and information about weather delay and impact on ceremony will be posted on the Commencement website.

How and Where to Exit after the Ceremony

• Students on Lower Baker Field must exit via two designated gates. The Maroon Section will exit out the Northwest gate of Lower Baker Field to Union Avenue. The White Section will exit out the Northeast gate of Lower Baker between Warner Gymnasium and Wyatt Hall. 
• In adherence of state guidelines, there will not be a Commencement reception following the ceremony.  
  Parents and students should plan their meet-up location prior to Commencement day. Following the ceremony, guests will depart campus and carry their celebration to their home, hotel, or other meeting location.
• Students and families should not congregate on campus.

Remember that tickets are required for your guests to attend your Commencement. 

If you have accessibility or mobility needs and have not already contacted the Office of Alumni and Parent Relations, please do so as soon as possible.

Commencement Etiquette

Please respect the dignity of the Commencement Ceremony by dressing appropriately, showing good manners, and refraining from the use of alcohol. Washington state law and university policy prohibit consumption of alcohol in public areas and on the Puget Sound campus. Complying with state and university regulations and promoting good behavior will help ensure that you, your fellow classmates, and your guests will have an enjoyable Commencement experience.
 

Full Department & School Listing for Line-Up Card Pick Up | CLASS OF 2020

Full Department & School Listing for Line-Up Card Pick Up | CLASS OF 2021