Commencement Schedule, Events, & Information

Investiture (Undergraduate Hooding)

Investiture is a formal ritual where graduates receive their academic regalia, namely hoods. These symbolize the completion of their degree program and the entry into a new phase of their lives as educated professionals.

Master Hooding Ceremony 

Graduate program graduates wear caps and gowns and receive their master’s hood from faculty. 

Baccalaureate Service of Worship

A baccalaureate is a religious or spiritual ceremony typically held during graduation festivities. It is a multi-faith service that provides an opportunity for graduates, faculty, staff, and their families to come together to reflect, give thanks, and seek blessings for the graduates as they prepare to embark on the next chapter of their lives. 

Marshal's Walk

Following the Baccalaureate Service, members of the graduating class will process by candlelight in the traditional Marshal's Walk from the chapel, along Oliver's Way, to the exterior of the Robertson College-Community Center. There, they gather as the College Marshal and other student representatives share brief remarks, followed by a reception in Peeler Crystal Lounge.

Commencement

Commencement honors all students who have completed their degree requirements.

NOTE: For information on guests, please see the schedule of events on this page.

• Special Needs Guests. If you plan to have a guest at Commencement who has limited mobility (wheelchair bound, walker assisted, etc.) and would like to reserve seating for them, please indicate on the ticket reservation form (limit of 1 accessibility ticket). As with all guests, tickets for a special needs guest(s) are required.
•  Completion of all academic work. If you expect to graduate this semester, be sure you have verified your academic record with your advisor and the Registrar. The final list of degree candidates will be compiled when it has been determined who has completed all requirements.
• Payment of outstanding debts. All financial obligations to the College must be paid prior to graduation.  Please see a staff member in the Business Office immediately if you have any questions about your account.
• Lodging. Reservations for out-of-town guests should be made immediately.  Guests should ask if the hotel provides a Catawba rate, as some local hotels do (Home2Suites, Comfort Suites, Holiday Inn Express, Hampton Inn, and Courtyard by Marriott).
  
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