Commencement Frequently Asked Questions

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 1. As a graduate, what do I do/where do I go to line up for the ceremony?

All graduates are to report to the Registrar’s Office, Room 224 in the Zappala College Center by 9.am, no later than one hour prior to the start of the ceremony. Graduates will check in, pick up a name card and proceed to the College Square, to line up according to degree.  Staff will be available to help direct students to the appropriate areas and assist with any last-minute cap and gown issues.

 2. What should I do with my coat/jacket and personal belongings if I am processing?

Graduates are highly encouraged to leave their coats/jackets and personal belongings out of view in a locked vehicle or with their guests. La Roche cannot be held responsible for lost/stolen items.

 3. What if I am late for the processional?

Graduates are expected to arrive no later than one hour prior to the ceremony start time. The processional will begin twenty minutes before the start of the ceremony. Additionally, it is important to arrive on time so that graduates may receive important instructions, as there is no rehearsal prior to the ceremony day.  Those who arrive after it has begun may not be allowed to participate.

 4. How do I get my honor cords?

Students graduating with departmental honors will receive the appropriate-color honor cords from their departments. Students who are members of honor societies may receive other honor accessories, but these are generally distributed through the clubs themselves, prior to the ceremony day.

 5. What is the process for me processing on stage and receiving my diploma cover?

Student ushers will direct standing candidates to the stage, where each graduate will hand a name reader his/her name card. As the name reader calls out the graduate's name, the graduate will walk across the stage and receive a congratulatory handshake from Academic Vice President, as well as a handshake and diploma cover from the President. The graduate shall then carefully step down from the stage and proceed to his/her original seat and remain standing until instructed to sit.

 6. What types of special speakers are at the ceremony?

Each commencement generally features a special-guest speaker who delivers the primary commencement address. The Commencement will also feature an honorary degree presentation.

 7. Do the students who are graduating need tickets to be admitted to the ceremony?

No, only guests are required to have tickets for admission.

 8. Are additional tickets available beyond the number I received?

In order to comply with the maximum occupancy laws for the Kerr Fitness Center, the commencement ticket allotment for each graduating student is limited. We cannot replace lost or stolen tickets. Graduates with unneeded tickets and those seeking additional tickets should indicate that on the online RSVP form. Thank you for your understanding.

 9. Will I be photographed during the ceremony?

Professional photographers from Grad Images will photograph each student as they receive their diploma and again as they exit the stage.  Your proofs will be available for viewing and purchase within 48 hours of the ceremony.

 10. Whom should I contact about ordering graduation photos or if I have other questions about them?

You can visit the Grad Images web site at http://www.gradimages.com to preregister, or call (800) 261-2576 if you have any questions. The graduation photo process is completely outsourced to this vendor, and La Roche College commencement staff will be unable to assist those who have specific questions related to photography services.

 11. Can I order specialized graduation announcements to send to my family and friends?

   Personalized graduation announcements can be ordered through Jostens.  Click here to go directly to La Roche College announcements and other graduation products:  Josten’s website.

 12. Will I receive my actual diploma directly from the President as I walk across stage?

The President of La Roche College will personally hand each graduate a diploma cover, however the actual diplomas are not printed until after Spring grades are finalized.  Diplomas are mailed approximately four weeks after commencement, unless you contact the Registrar’s Office and make arrangements for pick-up.  August graduates are issued their diplomas after summer grades are finalized.

 13. If I have any additional questions about graduation, whom do I contact?