Day of Instructions - Guests
Commencement is the live ceremony in which graduates celebrate the completion of a degree. There is no fee to participate in commencement ceremonies.
Dates and Times
For a full list of dates and times visit Event Schedules.
- Graduates participate in the ceremony that is listed for their college/school, degree (graduate vs. undergraduate) and major (if applicable).
- Doors open one hour prior to ceremony start times.
- There is no seating in the lobbies.
Location and Parking
All ceremonies are held in the First Community Arena at the Vadalabene Center.- Guests should enter through the east entrance and park in Lot A.
- Guests with accessibility needs should enter through the west entrance and park in Lot F.
Guest Seating
- Commencement is not a ticketed event.
- Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Accessible seating is labeled on the lower level of the gym.
- Guests requiring accessible seating may be accompanied by one guest.
- We ask that graduates limit their group size to six guests so that all guests may be accommodated comfortably and at a safe distance.
- We encourage social distancing when choosing seats.
Livestream
All live in-person ceremonies will be livestreamed. Only graduates in attendance will be recognized as they cross the stage. Friends and family members who cannot attend the ceremonies are encouraged to watch the livestream online.
Photography
GradImages is the official photographer of SIUE commencement.
- Photographs will be taken of each graduate during each ceremony as they cross the stage and after crossing the stage with their diploma cover.
Proofs will be provided by GradImages to graduates after each commencement ceremony for the opportunity to purchase photos. You can also find proofs at gradimages.com.
Accessibility Needs
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) encourages persons with disabilities to participate in its programs and activities. If you anticipate needing any type of accommodation, including alternate format media or have questions about the physical access provided, please call the office for Accessible Campus Community & Equitable Student Support (ACCESS) at 618.650.3726 or email myaccess@siue.edu in advance of your participation.
Pets
No animals are permitted in University buildings or facilities, with the exception of the following:
- Service animals for persons with disabilities.
- Animals used by law enforcement or emergency personnel in the exercise of their official duties.
- Animals approved pursuant to University Housing resident guidelines, including therapy animals for residents with disabilities. Approved therapy animals are not permitted in University buildings other than Housing units.
