Graduate Commencement
For Guests

Graduates: Please complete the Commencement Participation Form, indicating your planned attendance and estimated number of guests, by April 28. This will help us make appropriate arrangements for parking and the reception. If you return the form, you will receive more information about Commencement after May 5.

There will be open seating for an unlimited number of guests, on a first-come, first-served basis. Tickets are not required. We urge that guests arrive promptly and are seated by 1:30, no later than 1:45 p.m. All seats have a good view of the stage, and we will provide video projection onto two large screens as graduates are awarded their degrees. The arena is air-conditioned.

A layout of the seating for degree recipients will be available to guests on the day of the ceremony.

Guests, including children, are asked to remain in the guest seating area, and are not permitted to walk across the stage for safety reasons.

Optional personalized graduation announcements can be purchased at Print Services, 151 Whitmore, (413) 545-2718, fax 413-545-1115.

Photographs are allowed from the guest seating area, but aisles cannot be blocked, and care should be taken not to obstruct anyone's view. Guests are not allowed on the floor of the arena.

Photos of all degree recipients will be taken as they receive their diplomas. You will be able to purchase prints directly from a vendor.

Assistance for Those with Disabilities

Sign and oral interpreters

Sign-language or oral interpreters are available but must be requested no later than April 22. To request an interpreter, call (413) 545-0892 V/TTY or contact us via e-mail.

Questions about Commencement? Contact us

This page is maintained by University Advancement Communications.

© 2008 University of Massachusetts Amherst • Amherst, MA 01003