Commencement Rehearsal

 

Commencement rehearsal/meetings information will be sent via email. If graduates are unavailable to make the meetings or rehearsal staff will provide instructions and information about the run-of-show  when they check in at Commencement Venue.

 

Arrival and Check-In

 

All graduates should report to the TBA Room at 8:30 AM before the ceremony. They should check in with staff, and volunteers will be on-site to assist.

 

Check-in tables will be sorted by last name. This is where graduates pick up their Marching Order Card — a pre-printed name card with identifying information, including name, degree program, and honors.

 

The graduate will be in the line for the procession. Staff ushers will escort graduates directly to a seat on the floor.

 

The aisles must remain clear for everyone's safety, and graduates should stay seated until called to the stage for the Presentation of Candidates.

 

Marching Order Cards

 

Upon receiving the Marching Order Card, graduates should review it for errors.

 

If corrections are needed, the staff at the check-in table can assist.

 

Graduates may write a phonetic spelling of their name on the card to assist the name reader.

 

Graduates should keep their cards with them. You will hand this card to the name reader while walking up to the stage during the ceremony. Please don't discard, fold, or tear the card.

 

Personal Belongings

 

Graduates will not be allowed to bring personal items besides a cell phone.

 

After the ceremony, graduates will exit outside via the Ballroom. Arrange for guests to hold your items and valuables during the ceremony. Any items left behind will be returned to the SIPI campus at Admissions, where they can be claimed following the ceremony. Items left in the area will not be monitored and is not responsible for any damaged, lost, or stolen items.

 

Recognition of Candidates

 

Graduates will walk across the stage, have their names announced, and be photographed receiving their diploma covers.

 

Tassels and Mortarboards

 

At the end of the ceremony, candidates will be directed to turn their tassel from the right to the left to symbolize the conferral of their degree.

 

DO NOT toss or throw caps into the air, as this could result in injury.

 

Commencement Attire

 

Wear appropriate clothes, a black cap and gown, and/or Native traditional attire, with comfortable shoes. The tassel is teal and silver. The cap/gown/tassel packet or just the cap and tassel can be obtained from the SIPI Admission Office. There are only a limited number of caps and tassels available. 

 

The college offers guidance for attire to preserve the occasion's dignity and importance and show respect for the college, its graduates, and their families and friends.

 

While graduates may choose what attire to wear underneath their regalia, business or Native traditional attire is recommended.

 

 

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