Records Office

Winter Commencement 2006 Events

Friday, December 22, 2006
Alex Nemzek Fieldhouse
12:30 Lineup
2:00 - 4:00 Ceremony

Commencement Ceremony Questions and Answers

When and where are the commencement ceremonies held?

Upcoming commencement exercises are scheduled for Friday, December 22, 2006, at the Alex Nemzek Fieldhouse.

Students should be prepared for the lineup at 12:30.

How do I know what college I am in?

Please check the attached list of Majors by College.

In addition to the ceremony, are there events planned for degree candidates and their families?

A reception will be held for graduates, families and friends immediately following the ceremony. An announcement will be made during commencement as to the exact location.

How do we get information about the commencement ceremony and events? Do I have to inform anyone that I plan to participate in the commencement ceremony?

A letter with information for undergraduate candidates will be mailed four weeks prior to commencement to the local address or other address as indicated by the student on their APPLICATION FOR GRADUATION, which they have submitted to the Records Office.

Candidates for graduation are reminded to return the commencement reservation card by the deadline indicated in the letter. Only those who return the commencement reservation card will be given a seat assignment to participate in the ceremony.

Graduates are responsible for informing their family and friends. Formal announcements can be purchased through the University Bookstore.

Are guest tickets required for the commencement ceremony?

Tickets/guess passes are not required for attendance at the ceremony. We ask that you limit your guests to six.

KMSC DragonRadio is providing a webcast of Graduation ceremonies on the internet at http://www.dragonradio.org.

How long does the commencement ceremony last?

The program usually runs about two hours, from 2:00-4:00 p.m. All graduates and guests are expected to remain seated for the entire program.

How do I get a cap and gown for the ceremony?

The letter mailed six weeks prior to commencement will provide information regarding cost details. Caps and gowns will be available for purchase at the University Bookstore. Graduates who are in overseas programs, student teaching or interning out of town can call the Bookstore (218-477-2111) to place an order or can pick up items at the Bookstore on commencement morning before rehearsal. The Bookstore will hold “Grad Days” on November 7 and 8. This is an excellent time to purchase all your graduation needs.

Master's candidates purchase hoods according to their degree program. The hoods should be delivered to Karla Wenger in the Graduate Studies Office, Owens 215, no later than 48 hours before Commencement.

Graduating with honors?

If a graduate meets the requirements stated on page 62 of the 2006-2007 Bulletin, those honors will be indicated in the printed commencement program and read along with the graduate's name during the ceremony. Those graduates will receive their honor cord at the Bookstore when they pick up their cap and gown. Cum Laude graduates will wear white honor cords, Magna Cum Laude graduates will wear red honor cords and Summa Cum Laude graduates will wear red & white honor cords.

Are diplomas presented at the commencement ceremony?

You will not receive an actual diploma at the commencement ceremony. You will receive a diploma cover for you to place your diploma in after you receive it by mail. Your diploma will be mailed to you after grades are finalized and your graduation is confirmed by the Records Office. Diplomas are mailed approximately 8 weeks after graduation.

What if a graduate or guest needs special assistance to participate?

Graduates or guests requiring special accommodations should contact the Commencement Coordinator at (218) 477-2156 prior to commencement. All facilities are accessible.

How do I find out about local lodging for my guests?

Check out local lodging and restaurant listings at the F-M Area Convention & Visitors Bureau Web site: http//www.fargomoorhead.org.

Will there be a news release to my hometown newspaper?

University Communications will send a news release announcing your graduation to your hometown newspaper.

Can I prevent my name from appearing in the commencement program or being released to newspapers in an announcement of graduates?

This can be indicated on the APPLICATION FOR GRADUATION which is submitted to the Records Office (Owens 104).

Will there be a professional photographer?

A professional photographer will take your picture as you shake hands with the President. A proof will be mailed to your permanent address 5 to 7 days after the ceremony. After your graduation, you will be able to order online at www.gradimages.com or call 800-424-3686.

What if I need to change my graduation date to a later semester?

Please contact the Records Office (Owens 104) to change your graduation to a future term. Office hours are 8:00 am to 4:30 pm and the office telephone number is 218-477-2566.

What if I have additional questions about my graduation and/or the commencement ceremony

Please contact Shawn Soderberg in the Records Office (Owens 104). Office hours are 8:00 am to 4:30 pm and the office telephone number is 218-477-2566. You may also email questions to: soderbrg@mnstate.edu

HOW DO I KNOW WHAT COLLEGE I AM IN?