When and where is Commencement?
Tuesday, May 2, 2023, at 6:30 p.m. in Memorial Stadium.
Will I need tickets for commencement?
No. The College is working under the assumption that COVID-19-related event policies will continue to relax or remain as they are. Seating is first-come-first-served and there is usually ample seating for all guests.
What COVID-19 guidelines will graduates and guests have to follow?
All graduates, ceremony participants, and guests will need to complete the health screening form before entering the event. The form should be completed within 12 hours of the event.
While masks are not mandatory for outdoor events, masking is strongly recommended for all campus events.
What happens if it rains?
In the event of inclement weather, the ceremony will be moved to the Graham Athletics Center, where seating is limited. Each graduate will receive four entrance tickets with their regalia from the bookstore. These tickets are to be used only in case of inclement weather and are not needed for the ceremony in the Stadium.
What time do I need to be there?
The academic procession of graduating students, faculty, College officers, and members of the Board of Trustees will begin promptly at 6:25 p.m. Students should plan to be in the baseball field no later than 5:15 p.m. Guest are advised to arrive no later than 6 p.m. as well, earlier is better.
As the ceremony will be outside, you may want to bring a pillow or cushion to use on the stadium seats. Spring evening can be chilly, we suggest bringing a sweater or light coat.
How can I get a picture of my graduate?
Guests are not allowed onto the field or in the aisles during the ceremony to take photos of graduates. Professional photographers will be on hand to photograph every graduate.
Where can I park?
General Commencement Day parking will be available in the Campus Center, Science & Learning Center, and Amphitheater parking lots. Parking in the Athletic Center and Memorial Stadium will be reserved for individuals with mobility issues and will not be open to the general public. Campus Safety officers will direct guests and traffic before, during, and after the ceremony. Due to space limitations, motor homes and limousines will not be allowed to park on campus. Carpooling is strongly recommended.
How do I request ADA Accommodations for myself or my Guest(s)?
Reserved parking for graduates and guests who have impaired mobility will be available in the paved lot adjacent to the stadium. In addition, seating will be available on the track floor near the graduates for those guests in wheelchairs, and reserved seating in the first few rows of the stadium for guests with impaired mobility. For all guests requiring parking and/or seating accommodations, please contact Jessica Aparicio at japarici@whittier.edu or 562.907.4211 (e-mail is preferred) to reserve seats and/or parking space by Friday, April 14.
