Planning Your Day
Convocation is an amazing time! Follow our lead to help you get ready for your big day.
Plan What You Will Bring and Wear
Please remember to bring your convocation ticket.
Wear shoes you are comfortable in as you will be walking up and down stairs and will be required to stand for a period of time. We recommend only carrying small items to the ceremony. It is recommended that you leave large or personal items such as purses, shopping bags, and coats with your guests. Wear shoes you are comfortable in as you will be walking up and down stairs and will be required to stand for a period of time.
Arrival Time
Graduates should arrive 1 hour and 30 minutes before the ceremony. Doors open for guests 1 hour before the ceremony.
Preparing for the Processional
The processional is the start of the ceremony – make sure you are there on time so you don’t miss the moment!
Graduates will be asked to line up for the procession in the order they will cross the stage. The first graduand in line for each program is given the name of the program on a card. This card will be given to the orator, who will announce the name of the program before the graduate's name is read; we will provide guidance on this at the ceremony. Graduates receiving two credentials should be in the position to receive the highest credential. Both credentials will be read.
The Processional
The procession into the Queen Elizabeth Theatre is led by the chief graduation marshall in the following order: graduates, platform party, and faculty.
Please note that we will not be taking individual requests for seating assignments.
The Ceremony
During the ceremony, we’ll help you to:
- Get organized for the procession
- Walk across the stage to receive the acknowledgment and congratulations you’ve earned
- Pose for your photos, which will be taken with the president on stage, and another individual photo off-stage
- Return back to your seat
Guests may take photos and/or videos of the ceremony. However, we request that guests remain in their seats and be mindful of others when taking photos.
Remain Seated Until the End of the Ceremony
To make sure everyone enjoys the ceremony, please remember to remain seated until the ceremony is over. Why?
- Getting up and down is disruptive to others
- Leaving after you cross the stage is disrespectful to your classmates and their families
- Empty seats cause confusion for ushers and convocation staff
After the Ceremony Join Us for a Reception
Celebrate this momentous occasion on the šxʷƛ̓exən Xwtl’a7shn (formerly the QET Plaza) in front of the Queen Elizabeth Theatre. Join us for music, photo opportunities, and more at the reception hosted by Alumni.