We understand that many departments in CLAS hold graduation-timed events that are specific to their program or major, and always encourage building community with your students.

The Registrar's office has shared with us that there have been occasional misunderstandings with students thinking that they've RSVP'd for CLAS commencement when they have only done so for a departmental event.

To help mitigate this kind of confusion, the university is asking that we all emphasize that departmental celebrations are separate from official university commencement ceremonies.

Specifically, the university is advising that departments should please avoid using the terms “commencement” or “ceremony” in the titles of their events. Instead, “Celebration” is encouraged. 

For example:

• “Cinematic Arts Graduation Celebration”
• “Theatre Arts Graduation Celebration”

Thank you for your help in making the commencement experience a great one for our students and for your commitment to their success.