Commencement Ceremony – Event Details

About the Role The University of Rio Grande hosts its 2026 Commencement Ceremony, a campus-wide celebration with detailed schedules for graduates, pinning ceremonies, parking, livestream, photos, diplomas, and related events. The information below outlines what participants and guests should expect on May 7–9 and how to plan for a smooth ceremony. What You'll Do

• Pick up cap and gown in the Records Office in Rhodes Center; rain tickets are attached to caps and gowns.
• Arrive in cap and gown by 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 9, in your assigned area in front of Davis Library; processional begins at 1:00 p.m.
• If you cannot attend, obtain permission from the Registrar; you will graduate in absentia.
• Plan for possible roadwork and traffic delays in the Village of Rio Grande and nearby areas; allow extra travel time.
• Attend Commencement Practice on Friday, May 8 at 10:00 a.m. (not required but encouraged); meet at the front entrance of Davis Library; practice ends by 11:00 a.m.; if inclement weather, moved to Lyne Center.
• Attend Nurses’ Pinning Ceremony (Thu, May 7, 6:00 p.m.) and Allied Health Pinning Ceremony (Fri, May 8, 6:00 p.m.); and a ceremony on Saturday, May 9 at 11:00 a.m. in the Berry Fine & Performing Arts Center.
• Parking: handicapped spots and guest drop-off areas are designated; follow campus police directions; parking lots include North College Ave Greer Museum Lot, Ohio Valley Bank lot, and others described.
• If rain occurs, the Lyne Center Newt Oliver Arena is the backup; rain tickets are four per graduate and guests will be seated by noon; simulcast available in Christensen Theatre if more guests attend.
• Livestream of the entire ceremony on Rio’s YouTube channel; photos by Roots Photography with purchases available; DVDs for purchase ($20).
• Diploma pickup: spring graduates will receive an email when ready; diplomas not picked up will be mailed; e-diploma sent to student email; summer graduates via USPS. What We're Looking For
• Attendees should arrive early, dress appropriately, and follow all posted instructions; graduates must arrive robed and ready; guests should be aware of ticket limits (four per graduate) and use simulcast if more are needed.
• Be mindful of roadwork and parking layouts; parking lots listed are available on event day.
• If weather disrupts, be prepared for indoor seating options in the Lyne Center or Christensen Theatre.
• For name pronunciation, contact your Dean during Practice or within two days of the ceremony. Nice to Have
• Outdoor seating is first-come, first-served; bring your own chairs if desired; tents or canopies are not allowed; seating indoors is available in Christensen Theatre if needed.
• Stay updated via Rio’s YouTube channel and Rio.edu for rain announcements. Compensation & Benefits
• Not applicable; this is a university ceremony for graduates and guests.