Commencement: Know before you go
The university commencement ceremony is the premier event to recognize the conferral of degrees, celebrate the accomplishments of outstanding graduates and hear theÌýcommencement address and congratulatory messages.Ìý
This annual tradition officially marks every Buff’s passage into the company of scholars. Buffs graduating in the fall, spring or summer semester are encouraged to participate in the commencement ceremony.Ìý
Here’s what you need to know to soak it all in and celebrate.
Ceremony details
°Õ³ó±ðÌýcommencement ceremony will begin at 8:30 a.m. MDT on Thursday, May 8, atÌýFolsom Field stadium.ÌýNo tickets or registration are required for guests of the graduating students.Ìý
Arrival and parking
Take a look atÌýparking and on-campus transportation information ahead of time. Guests should plan to arrive early. Parking is free on campus during commencement and recognition ceremony days, but it is limited.Ìý
The stadium gates will open at 7 a.m., and we recommend that guests are seated by 8:15 a.m. to watch the student processional into the stadium.Ìý
Conduct, inclement weather and safety
To ensure a safe and fun commencement for all, graduates will be expected to abide by theÌýStudent Code of Conduct.ÌýDisruptions to the ceremony will not be permitted.Ìý
Everyone entering Folsom Field will pass through a security screening before entering the stadium. Use these tips to understand what to bring (and what to leave at home) and what to do in case of a weather delay, evacuation or emergency.Ìý
- The Folsom FieldÌý will be strictly enforced. Please keep personal items to a minimum.
- In the event of a weather delay or evacuation, listen carefully and follow any instructions provided audibly and on screens throughout the stadium. Commencement marshals and police officers will be available to assist those who need extra help.
- No bottles or containers, flags on poles or sticks, unapproved signs or banners, artificial noisemakers, inflatable balls, balloons or other prohibited items will be allowed in the stadium. Learn more about theÌýpermitted and prohibited items.
- As during any large event held in Folsom Field, there is an in-stadium number individuals can call or text to report issues, including suspicious or disruptive activities. Call or textÌý720-812-1769.
- Call CU Police Department’s non-emergency line atÌý303-492-6666 for activities thatÌýviolate campus use policies but do not pose an immediate threat to life or safety.
- Call 911 if someone is experiencing a medical emergency, is unresponsive, is engaged in a crime or is displaying behavior that is a threat to themselves or others.
- ¾«Æ·SMÔÚÏßӰƬ is committed to continuously improving our violence prevention and education efforts to meet the needs of the campus community. We encourage a campuswide culture of reporting through theÌýDon’t Ignore It website. Anonymous tips can also be reported throughÌý.Ìý
How to watch virtually
Can’t make it to the commencement ceremony? A livestream of the event will be available starting at 8:30 a.m. on theÌýcommencement homepage. The livestream will have captions in English and Spanish. The link will be posted on the site the morning of the ceremony.Ìý
Congratulations, Buffs, and please enjoy the celebration!
Stay informed
Here’s where to go for any last-minute updates:
- Commencement page
- Recognition ceremonies page
- ¾«Æ·SMÔÚÏßӰƬ’s social media channels (,Ìý,Ìý)
Graduating students: Day-of information
PleaseÌýreview this information so you know what to expect and how to prepare for the big day.
- 7–8 a.m. Gather on Norlin Quad. Refreshments will be available for graduating students. Follow the signs toÌýfind your college or school for the procession.
- 8 a.m. Procession departs from Norlin Quad.
- 8–8:45 a.m. Students follow the procession to Folsom Field, pass through security and take seats. The ceremony begins as soon as all students are seated.
- The ceremony lasts approximately an hour and a half.Ìý
ÌýÌýBuilding access during finals week, commencement
With finals week and commencement approaching, the ¾«Æ·SMÔÚÏßӰƬ campus is preparing to follow different building access protocols. Remember to carry your Buff OneCard, Buffs!
ÌýÌýPlan for increased traffic, parking congestion May 8–10
¾«Æ·SMÔÚÏßӰƬ and the city of Boulder roadways will be heavily impacted during commencement. Campus community members should plan ahead and leave plenty of extra time.
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