Congratulations, Graduates!
As we prepare to celebrate your success, we know you might have some questions. Check out the list of frequently asked questions below. If you don't see your particular question, reach out to our commencement team at commencement@ysu.edu. Congratulations again, and best of luck!
- When and where is Commencement?
Commencement is EITHER Saturday, May 4 or Sunday, May 5, in Beeghly Center, based on the college in which you're enrolled. Please refer to the main Commencement web page for your ceremony date and time.
- Are tickets required?
No, tickets are not required for any of the celebrations and ceremonies.
- Where do I go when I arrive for the ceremony?
Graduates will arrive dressed in regalia and go to their assigned location (information will be provided); they will get their name card and then line up in their designated area as indicated.
- Where do my family members go when they arrive for the ceremony?
Family and friends will be seated in the main gymnasium in Beeghly Center for all ceremonies except the Cliffe College Ceremony which will take place in Bliss Hall's Ford Theatre.
- Where should I park and is there handicap parking?
Free parking will be available in campus lots during the graduation celebration weekend.
Handicap parking will be available in the M81 lot off of the Service Road. From there, a tram will be available to take guests to rear of Beeghly Center. Handicap seating is available in the "lower reds" of the gymnasium and also behind the graduates on the main level of the gymnasium, if available.
- What time should I arrive the day of my Commencement?
Please arrive 60 minutes prior to your commencement.
- How do I receive my regalia?
Regalia will be mailed to you. If you have not received your regalia by April 25th, please contact us at 330-941-2962.
- Will the ceremony be live streamed?
The ceremony will be live streamed. Those who are unable to attend can watch the commencement on our YouTube channel, or by going to our homepage.
- What is the dress code for commencement? What if I am graduating with Honors?
Please dress in business attire. Leave purses, bags, wallets and valuables locked in your car. There will be nowhere to store them once you arrive.
Honor cords will be distributed to graduates who have earned them. Location to be announced.
- What are the disability accommodations for graduates?
Graduates requesting assistance who are participating in the Commencement ceremony should contact 330-941-2136.
A sign language interpreter will be available at the ceremony.
- Restroom Locations
Restrooms are located on all levels of Beeghly Center for the ceremonies taking place in that building. For the ceremony taking place in Bliss Hall, restrooms are located in the main hallway, just beyond the elevator and stairwell.
- Etiquette Reminders:
The commencement ceremony is a special event for all involved. It commemorates the completion of an educational goal by the graduate and allows family and friends to participate in a celebration of that completion. Please show respect for everyone who has come to share in the experience.
- During the reading of graduate names, we ask graduates and their guests to be considerate in their applause so that all names are heard clearly and the ceremony is not disrupted.
- Please remain for the entire ceremony.
- Turn off or place your phone in silent mode to ensure that all guests may hear and enjoy the ceremony.