Everything You Need to Know About Commencement 2023
Posted by Chloe Van Caeseele on May 1, 2023
As my final year at Binghamton quickly comes to a close, there is one day that I find myself in constant preparation for: Commencement. I am honored to have been given the opportunity to be a student Commencement speaker at my ceremony. Talk about a big responsibility! I wanted to make sure that I didn’t miss a single thing when it comes to the big day, so I did a deep dive into everything that you and your guests need to know to be prepared for Commencement 2023.
When it takes place
Commencement 2023 will take place May 12 through May 14, with the Doctoral Hooding Ceremony on May 10. For a more detailed schedule, check out the Commencement Schedule of Events.
What to expect
Throughout the 10 ceremonies that will be held Commencement weekend, over 4,500 degrees will be handed out with each graduate walking the stage. Each ceremony is expected to last between 1.5 and 2 hours. For more of a breakdown of each ceremony, click here. There are going to be some amazing students speaking at each ceremony!
What to wear
All graduates participating in a Commencement ceremony must wear a cap, gown, tassel and stole. Make sure to hang up your gown and other attire so you can start getting the wrinkles out. For any questions, contact bksbinghamton@bncollege.com or call 607-777-2745.
When to get there
Graduates should arrive one hour before their ceremony to check in. For those attending Events Center ceremonies, you will enter on the east side at floor level. A map can be found here. Anderson Center ceremonies will go through the main entrance and follow signs to the Chamber Hall to check in.
Guests should plan to arrive 45 minutes prior to the ceremony time. Make sure your guests have their tickets before you arrive at your ceremony, as they will need to have their tickets printed or on their phone when they arrive at the venue.
Parking
Parking will be available only 45 minutes before the ceremony time. Eligible parking lots will be marked on the day of the ceremony. University Police and parking attendants will be present to direct traffic and get you to where you need to be. Before you go, have the campus map on hand for reference. For those who require accessible parking or drop-off, visit the Accessibility Planning webpage for information.
Tickets
Make sure that your guests have their tickets before you leave for your ceremony. Only students can claim tickets and distribute them to guests. The number of tickets you receive is based on the number of students attending the ceremony. For more information on tickets, go to the Commencement Ticket webpage. If you have people that would like to watch the ceremony but do not have a ticket, all ceremonies will be livestreamed on the Binghamton University YouTube channel.
Day of ceremony checklist
1. Wear your cap, gown, stole, tassel and any cords that you’ve received.
2. Bring your name card with you. (Harpur grads only)
3. Do not bring purses, bags or any large personal items with you, as there will not be a designated place to leave them.
4. Bring your phone for pictures!
5. Make sure your guests have their tickets before you head off to the student check-in area.
Arrival to Commencement
Make sure your guests have their tickets before you go to the Student Check-in area. In the Student Check-in area, check in at the tables to receive your name card (if you didn't already pick it up). If you have your name card, go directly to the line-up area behind the flag/sign of the major/department you will be walking with. There will be volunteers to help you line up behind the correct group. If you wish to sit with a friend, that person must stand either ahead of you or behind you in the same line as the two lines split during the processional.
Crossing the stage
As you approach the stage, you will scan your name card, putting you in the queue for your name and major(s) to appear onscreen. You will also receive your diploma cover. As you go up the stairs of the stage, hand your name card to the name reader located at the podium on your right. When crossing the stage, you will stop momentarily for a group picture with President Stenger and the dean from your school. After the photo, continue across the stage, down the stairs and then proceed to a final picture stop before returning to the seating area.
Photography
Be sure to get your graduation photos after your ceremony. Visit www.GradImages.com to view and purchase custom photo products like prints, plaques, specialty gifts and more. If have any questions or concerns regarding your photos, call 800-261-2576, or email ecc.giservice@gradimages.net.
Livestream
If you can't make a Commencement ceremony in person, no worries! All of the ceremonies will be livestreamed (and available to watch later) on the University's YouTube channel.
Diplomas
Six to eight weeks after the end of your final semester, you will receive your diploma in the mail at the address Binghamton University has on file, so make sure that is up to date!
Although all the preparation may seem daunting, remember to celebrate your achievements. Have fun these last few weeks, check off anything remaining on your Binghamton bucket list, and don't forget about any final exams or assignments. You're almost there!
For more information on Commencement, visit https://www.binghamton.edu/commencement/.
Chloe Van Caeseele is an intern for the Office of Media and Public Relations, and a senior majoring in anthropology with a minor in linguistics. She is also a campus tour guide and a resident assistant in Hinman College. In her free time, she loves to ski, take spin classes and watch (too much) reality TV.
Have questions, comments or concerns about the blog? Email us at social@binghamton.edu.