Frequently Asked Questions – Commencement

Before Commencement

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When is the senior rehearsal for Commencement?

Senior rehearsal is on Thursday, June 11 at 2 p.m. in Dalton Theatre. All seniors are required to attend!

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Are honor cords given for honors in a major or for Latin honors?

Kalamazoo College does not provide cords for Latin honors or honors in a major.

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What lodging opportunities are available during Commencement Weekend?

Please see the travel and lodging page for a list of hotels and bed and breakfasts near campus.

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Where can I find a full schedule of events for the weekend?

Please see the schedule of events.

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I can’t make it to Commencement in person. Will it be livestreamed?

Yes, please see the schedule of events for event streaming information and links.

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Commencement Ceremony

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When is the Commencement Ceremony for 2026?

The ceremony is on Sunday, June 14 at 10 a.m.

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Where will the Commencement Ceremony take place?

The ceremony will take place outside on the Quadrangle and it is a rain or shine event. Please be prepared for any kind of weather!

While commencement will take place regardless of the weather conditions, in the event of heavy rain showers or severe weather (thunder/lightning observed or anticipated), the commencement ceremony may be delayed by no more than three hours. Communication about a delay would be sent via K Alert, social media and email no later than 8 a.m. on Sunday, June 14.

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How long is the Commencement Ceremony?

The ceremony will take approximately two hours and thirty minutes.

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Are there rain tickets for the Commencement Ceremony?

There are no rain tickets for the ceremony and it will take place outside rain or shine. Please be prepared for any kind of weather!

While commencement will take place regardless of the weather conditions, in the event of heavy rain showers or severe weather (thunder/lightning observed or anticipated), the commencement ceremony may be delayed by no more than three hours. Communication about a delay would be sent via K Alert, social media and email no later than 8 a.m. on Sunday, June 14.

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How many guests can I invite to the Commencement Ceremony?

There is no limit to the number of guests each senior can invite to campus. If a family member cannot attend the ceremony in-person, it will be livestreamed.

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Where can my family sit for the Commencement Ceremony?

Chairs will be available to accommodate family and friends on the Quad. Open seating will also be available on the grass of the Upper Quad where guests can bring lawn chairs and blankets to view the ceremony as long as they do not obstruct the view of other guests. If you have a guest with a mobility challenge, please visit the accessibility information page.

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I have a family member with a mobility concern. What is the best way to get around campus on the day of the ceremony?

Please see accessibility information for specific details relating to barrier-free access.

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What shouldn’t I bring to the Commencement Ceremony?

Please refrain from bringing family pets (service dogs are permitted), as well as confetti, air horns, bull horns or other noisemakers to the ceremony. Oversized signs, banners and flags are strongly discouraged, as they have the potential to block the view of others. In inclement weather, please be mindful of others if using an umbrella. Additionally, please note that Kalamazoo College is a smoke and tobacco free campus. This is an important day, and we want every graduate, family member and speaker to have a fantastic experience!

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Can I bring our family dog with me to Commencement, as it’s outdoors?

While we love our pets, managing them during the Commencement Ceremony can be a challenge, and we ask that they remain at home. Service animals are, of course, welcome. Please see the College’s policy for pets, service animals and emotional support animals.

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Will there be photographs taken during the ceremony?

The College has an agreement with Graduation Foto to take a photo of each senior as they accept their diploma and exit the stage. All seniors must fill out the Graduation Foto contact information form in order to receive a proof of the photo taken during the ceremony. This form will be available closer to June. After Commencement Weekend, graduates will receive information about ordering keepsake prints.

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Where should I park when I arrive on campus?

Please see parking information. Please note that Academy Street is closed at the east end of campus near Stadium Drive.

After Ceremony

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Where can I have lunch after the ceremony?

Please see suggested dining.