Commencement FAQs

Is Commencement the same as Graduation Day?
Yes, Commencement is the actual ceremony held to recognize students who will have completed their degree requirements by August 2021.

When is Commencement?
We are hosting a virtual Commencement on Wednesday, June 15th. There will be two ceremonies -- one in the morning and one in the afternoon. We will announce closer to June which schools are assigned to each ceremony.

How do I make sure my name is correct on my diploma?
Candidates who will fulfill their degree requirements at the end of the current semester will receive an email with instructions to complete the Degree Candidate Verification Form, which is where you can double-check the spelling of your name.  

When and how do I order my cap and gown?
You can order your cap and gown TODAY. 

We have partnered with a company called Oak Hall for the caps and gowns. Here is the link to our graduation shop on their website: 

Purchase Your Cap and Gown

Please note:  We strongly recommend that you order your cap and gown as soon as possible as they are experiencing great demand. Your purchases will be shipped to you at home in mid-May.

I heard that President Jerome gives shout-outs during his speech to family members graduating together. How do I make sure my family member and I get on that list?   
Yes, he does! We will send out an announcement in late-April with instructions on how to submit your details.

Will my name be read at the ceremony?
Yes! Every graduate will have their name announced as they walk across the stage. (How exciting is that?!) 

Are students who finished their degree requirements in December 2021 allowed to walk in the June Commencement ceremony? What about students who won’t finish until August?
Yes!  If you finished at the end of the Fall semester (or will finish in the Spring semester), you are welcome to participate in Commencement in June. 

Are online students eligible to walk in Commencement?
Yes, absolutely! 

Are St. Lucia graduates included in the New York ceremony?
The St. Lucia campus holds its own Commencement in October. 

Will I receive my diploma at the ceremony?
No. Diplomas will be available for pick up in approximately 2-3 months after your degree requirements are completed. The Registrar will send a letter and an email once they are available.  

Who do I contact if I have special needs (i.e. mobility, hearing, other) should I choose to participate in the ceremony?
Please contact Jackie Ruegger in the President’s Office at jruegger@monroecollege.edu. 

Will there be a photographer?
Yes, a professional photographer will be on hand to take a picture as you walk across the stage and shake the hand of President Jerome or Chairman Jerome. An additional photo opportunity will be available on site. You will receive information in the mail from the vendor after the ceremony about obtaining copies of your pictures. 

Will the ceremony be videotaped?
Yes, the College will be videotaping Commencement. Later in the summer, we will share a highlights video showcasing special moments from both ceremonies. 

What is Grad Fest and when is it?
Grad Fest -- the event that we used to call Grad Finale -- is where you will pick up your guest tickets, as well as  important information for you and your guests about arriving at Radio City Music Hall. While there, you’ll also be able to join the Alumni Association, check in with Career Services, and purchase graduation mementos. The 2022 dates have not yet been announced. 

When are the academic awards ceremonies held? 
Students graduating with Latin honors will be celebrated at events on both campuses. The 2022 dates have not been announced yet.

When will King Graduate School hold its Hooding & Award ceremony?
The 2022 dates have not been announced yet.

Who do I contact if I have more questions?
Please contact Jackie Ruegger in the President’s Office at jruegger@monroecollege.edu.