FAQ

Do I need tickets?
No. Tickets are not needed. You may bring as many family members and friends as you like.

What time do candidates need to be there?
Graduates will report to the Whitaker Rehearsal Room (on the lower level) of the Touhill Center 45 minutes before the ceremony.

What time should guests arrive?
The Touhill Center will open to the public one hour before the start of ceremonies.

How long does the ceremony usually last?
Each ceremony will be approximately 1 to 1 1/2 hours in length.

Will my name be read?
Yes. All candidates come to the stage - their names are read, they are congratulated by the Chancellor, and they receive a diploma cover.

Where do I get my Cap and Gown?
During the Grad Fair at the University Bookstore in the Millennium Student Center
June 25 & 26 from 11 a.m. to 6p.m. each day.

Do I have to wear a cap and gown to the commencement ceremony?
Yes, all faculty, staff and students taking part in the graduation ceremony are required to wear traditional academic attire.

On which side do I wear my tassel?
Undergraduate students should wear their tassel on the right side of their cap at the beginning of the ceremony. After students are pronounced graduated, tassels are moved to the left side of the cap.

Graduate students should wear their tassel on the left side of their cap, since they have already graduated with a bachelor's degree.

Faculty members and administrators should wear their tassel on the left side of their cap.

Is there a graduation rehearsal I need to attend?
No, there is no rehearsal.

When do I get my diploma?
Approximately 6-8 weeks after commencement your diploma will be mailed to you. A copy of the commencement program will be included. If you have a question about how your name will appear on the diploma, contact Peggy Bemis in the Registrar's Office at 516-5548 .

Will professional photos be taken?
Heart of America/ Chappell Photography will take two photos of each candidate -
1. As the candidate shakes hands with the Chancellor.  2. At the foot of the stage in front of the US and MO flags. You will receive proofs in the mail about a week after the ceremony. If you do not receive your proofs in 7-10 days, call Heart of America/Chappell Photography at 800-424-3686.

Is there a video made of the ceremony?
No.

Is the building handicapped accessible?
Yes.  Accessible guest seating is available on a first-come basis.

How do I join the Alumni Association?
Contact the Office of Alumni Activities at 314-516-5747 or visit the Alumni Association Web Page.