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What to know about Commencement Day?

Registered Participants and all attending guests are required to understand and comply with this information

 

Sunday, December 15, 2024

ONLY Graduates will enter through P1 Garage VIP Door (inside the FedExForum Garage). Guests will enter at the front door on Beale Street.

Clear Bags Only -- Free and Open to the Public (No Tickets)-- Graduates and Guests will go through Security Checkpoints

Location: FedExForum

FedExForum (Downtown Memphis, TN) 

Clear Bag Policy for all Graduates and Guests

Full Details about attending Commencement Ceremonies at the University of Memphis

Commencement Participant and Guests Guidelines

Watch Commencement Live  

If you need accommodations for accessibility for yourself during commencement, please provide information by emailing commencement@memphis.edu with your identifiable information and details on the accommodation needed.

12:00 pm – Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law, School of Communication Sciences and Disorders, College of Arts & Sciences, College of Education, College of Professional & Liberal Studies, Loewenberg College of Nursing, and Doctoral and Master Candidates from these groups. Must arrive by 11:00 AM for lineup. Duration is 2 hours.

4:00 pm --College of Communication and Fine Arts, College of Health Sciences, Fogelman College of Business & Economics, Herff College of Engineering, Kemmons Wilson School of Hospitality and Resort Management, School of Public Health and Doctoral and Master Candidates from these groups. Must arrive by 3:00 PM for lineup. Duration is 2 hours.

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Commencement is a time to celebrate and enjoy your accomplishments. However, it is a ceremony. We do not allow anyone to participate with the graduate. Only the graduate is allowed on the event level and on stage (no parents, guests, children, etc.). We do not allow proposals or the like at the ceremony. You are required to honor the spirit of this important occasion by conducting yourself in a manner that is respectful of yourself, fellow graduates and our guests. It is your responsibility to speak to your guests to comply to the following guidelines. By participating and attending The University of Memphis Commencement ceremony you agree to observe the following guidelines and rules: 

 

Commencement Conduct Guidelines

  • Please review Commencement Conduct Guidelines available at the hyperlink above. 

 

Clear Bag Policy at FedExForum

The FedExForum has a Clear Bag Policy that  limits the size and type of bags that may be brought into any event. Only bags meeting the following standards will be allowed inside FedExForum:

  • Clear Bags made of plastic, vinyl or PVC no larger than 6x8x2 inches
  • Bags MAY NOT have an all-over print or decoration that prohibits FULL view of its contents
  • The bag may contain a strap, but metal or chain straps are prohibited
  • One quart or smaller clear plastic storage/freezer bag (Ziploc or similar)
  • Wallets (sized to carried in the front or back pocket) no larger than 5x3.5 inches
  • Clear bags and wallets compliant with the above will also be screened through X-Ray machines.
  • Exceptions to this policy will be made for all medically necessary items after proper inspection.
  • For more information, visit https://fedexforum.com/.

 

Commencement Live Stream

  • Watch Commencement Live. 

 

Pronouncer Card

  • At cap and gown distribution, you will receive your Pronouncer Card.
  • This is how your name is called at commencement and your ticket into the arena and across the stage.
  • BRING THIS CARD WITH YOU to Commencement!
  • This card is REQUIRED to attend Commencement.
  • DO NOT LOSE THIS CARD. DO NOT DESTROY THIS CARD.
  • This card cannot be replaced.
  • Lambuth Campus Pronouncer Cards will be on the Event Level at the Check-In table (behind the stage), an hour before your ceremony begins.

 

Before arriving to commencement ceremony

  • Discuss details about the ceremony with attending guests.
  • Make sure you know what your college/school is, so you lineup correctly. If you are unsure, please reach out.
  • Don’t leave home without your Cap and Gown.
  • Don’t leave home without your Pronouncer Card.
  • Do not bring restricted items. See Clear Bag Policy above. 

 

Arrival

  • Arrive 1 (ONE) hour prior to your ceremony start time.
  • Plan for traffic.
  • Enter at the front doors of the FedExForum.
  • Go through Security Checkpoints (see below for details).
  • Guests remain on the top level. We do NOT allow anyone to participate with the graduate. Only the graduate is allowed on the event level and on stage (no parents, guests, children, etc.). We do NOT allow proposals or the like at the ceremony.
  • Participants ONLY go to the Event Level (EL). No guests are allowed on the Event Level at any time.
  • Once on the Event Level, look for your College Signage
  • Once at your college lineup, begin to line yourself up with your peers using the Number on your pronouncer card
  • Student Marshals and Crew members will assist you in this process.
  • There are 16 chairs in each row. That means that every sixteenth person ends the row.
  • Please listen for directions.

 

Personal Items, Clothing, etc.

  • Bring Clear Bag (See information above regarding what types of item are allowed and not allowed. Please share with guests.)
  • Do NOT bring personal items on the floor. Give them to guests prior to coming to the Event Level for lineup.
  • Bring your cellphone. When it is time to go to stage, take your cellphone with you. We cannot watch or keep cellphones or any other personal items, and we do not recommend leaving person items in your chair.
  • Wear something with pockets, if desired.
  • Wear lightweight clothing. Be comfortably dressed up.
  • Avoid suit-jackets.
  • High-heeled shoes are strongly discouraged. Wear shoes that are comfortable.
  • Gowns are black.
  • The Commencement Program (Hard Copy/Electronic Program) lists the name in this order (Doctoral, Masters and Undergraduates by College and School names in Alpha Name Order).

 

Tickets

  • At the FedExForum, Commencement is free and open to the public. No tickets required.
  • Guests’ seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Guests cannot hold seats.

 

Parking

  • Parking is available in the FedExForum Garage on a first come/first-served basis for $10.00.
  • Must be paid via CREDIT CARD ONLY. Guests will need to have a credit card to pay for parking in the FedExForum Garage. No cash accepted. 
  • https://fedexforum.com/plan-your-visit/parking

 

Seating Diagram

 

Duration

  • Plan for a ceremony of 2 hours. Stay for full duration.
  • Graduates go across the stage at the end for a final celebration together.

 

Lineup at the Ceremony

  • At the ceremony, you will lineup in numerical order by college and school.
  • Pay attention to Signs when you arrive downstairs for lineup (Event Level)
  • The Pronouncer Card (you will receive this at cap and gown distribution) will have a number in the lower left corner “Lineup Order”.
  • Line up in NUMERICAL order for your college.
  • When lining up, do NOT block the hallway/aisles. You will prevent traffic from flowing smoothly.
  • LINEUP IN A SINGLE FILE LINE (against the wall).
  • Working together with other graduates in your college will allow this to flow smoothly.
  • Business & College of Arts & Sciences are our largest colleges and have several people lining up. Please listen for instructions and be patient with other graduates as they arrive.
  • Crew Members will be on hand to help you. Please listen to direction.

 

Stage

  • Guests remain on the top level. We do not allow anyone to participate with the graduate. Only the graduate is allowed on the event level and on stage (no parents, guests, children, etc.). We do not allow proposals or the like at the ceremony.
  • We keep the lines moving quickly.
  • Proceed as you are directed.
  • Dancing, leaping, jumping, yelling or the like are completely prohibited. You will be removed. Refer to Commencement Coduct Guidelines above. 
  • After taking your photo, return to your seat for further direction.

 

Cap Decorating

  • You can decorate your cap. The decoration must be flat on the top of the surface, only.
  • Any other adornments are not allowed. It will be removed.
  • Honor Cords, Honor Medallions, Stoles, and other academic items are allowed.

  • Top of Cap Dimensions: Approximtely 9 ¼ X 9 ¼

 

Security at the FedExForum

  • Walk-through magnetometers were installed at FedExForum under the premise of being used at all Memphis Grizzlies games, as per an NBA mandate conceptualized during league security meetings. The magnetometers have become an industry standard across MLB, NHL and NFL venues and their use will now be mandatory for every FedExForum event in order to improve fan safety and guest experience, a shared goal between FedExForum, the University of Memphis and touring production companies. To ensure your Commencement ceremony is enjoyable for you and your guests, please note the following:
  • X-Ray Units that bags must be scanned through instead of just opened up and visually checked.
  • Secondary metal detector for failed screening or individual must pass through metal detector until they are cleared.
  • Guests are advised to bring ONLY necessary items to the FedExForum during events, concerts and games.
  • Separate express lanes will be available for guests in the Grand Lobby without bags to be inspected.
  • Guests will not need to remove their hats, shoes, belts, watches or jewelry as with airport security. Guests will have to place their cell phones, cameras, keys on a security table prior to walking through the metal detector.
  • Expectant mothers, those with pacemakers and ADA guests are not subject to the magnetometers and will instead be screened through handheld devices.
  • Clear Bag Policy and Screening Measures at the FedExForum 
    • Only bags meeting the following standards will be allowed inside FedExForum:
    • Clear bags made of plastic, vinyl or PVC no larger than 6x8x2 inches.
    • Bags MAY NOT have an all-over print or decoration that prohibits FULL view of its contents.
    • The bag may contain a strap, but metal or chain straps are prohibited.
    • One quart or smaller clear plastic storage/freezer bag (Ziploc or similar)
    • Wallets (sized to carried in the front or back pocket) no larger than 5x3.5 inches.
    • Clear bags and wallets compliant with the above will also be screened through X-Ray machines.
    • Exceptions to this policy will be made for all medically necessary items after proper inspection.
  • Food will not be available for this event. Coffee and water are available for purchase at Snax by section 101.
  • Outside food and beverages cannot be brought into FedExForum.
  • Remember that wrapped gifts and helium balloons are never allowed into FedExForum.

 

Gifts to Graduates

  • Custom T-Shirts, Sweatshirts, Flowers and More  

  • Parent and Family Graduation Yard Sign --  Are you a proud family member of a soon-to-be graduate? Celebrate your family’s accomplishment with a University of Memphis graduation yard sign! The 18x24 yard signs read “Proud Family of a UofM Graduate” and includes a metal stand. Orders will only be available for pick-up during Cap and Gown Pickup.

 

Invitations 

Invitations are not required for participation in Commencement. If you wish to purchase invitations, here are a few options:

 

Graduation Photos

  • GradImages will be photographing all graduates at the upcoming graduation ceremony. After graduation, you may order online at www.gradimages.com.
  • GradImages will take 2-3 photos throughout your graduation ceremony. These photos will be emailed to your Memphis email address 7 days after the event.

 

Accessibility Concerns

 

Sharing Information with Family and Friends

  • While Commencement is a family event and we look forward to you participating with family and friends, we do not share participation details with family/friends for any of our participants. It is your responsibility to share your participation with the individuals you want to know. We do not and cannot provide academic details with family and friends either. Please be sure family and friends are aware of this. We can provide general ceremonial details only.  Details about the upcoming commencement will be updated later. For current information, visit: https://www.memphis.edu/commencement/.

 

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Diplomas

Upon successful review, your degree will be certified, and diploma processed. Diplomas are mailed 4 months after each commencement and not available earlier. You should ensure we have your correct address on your Graduation Application. We only use the Address on Step 3 of your Graduation Application to mail diplomas. Only contact us after 4 months if you do not have your diploma. Peers may receive their diploma before you do, but this does not mean your diploma is not mailed. Postal practices differ in various locations. If you need proof of graduation or confirmation of graduation for Employers, Agencies, and other Organizations, the organization or employer is not asking for your diploma specifically. Even if the wording says diploma, they simply need proof that you have graduated. Thus, you can visit your MyMemphis account and find your Unofficial Transcript and find the information on the transcript that says you have graduated at the time this becomes official. 

 

Updating Diploma Mailing Address

  • You have one (1) month after Commencement to update your address with our office. To update your office, email us at commencement@memphis.edu no later than one month after the commencement date. On the email include Name, Unumber, Major and New Address (Street, Apt #, City, State, Zip Code) to mail your diploma. It is your responsibility to update your address with The Commencement Office. Your receipt of this email is confirmation of your understanding. Simply updating your address on the portal does not update your diploma with this office. Update your diploma address with the Commencement Office directly as said in this email. It is your responsibility to understand this and comply. Failure to update your address one month after Commencement: If you do not update your address within the time indicated, you will be responsible for ordering a copy of your diploma on our website (There is a cost of $20.00). All diplomas are mailed standard USPS. If you do not receive your diploma and contact us with a new address-different from the one of your graduation application-you will be sent the reorder link and upon processing the diploma will be sent to the new address, you provide to us on the form. It is your responsibility to understand this.

 

Diplomas: What do they look like? What is on them? 

Diplomas will only reflect the degree name, any undergraduate honors distinctions, and undergraduate departmental honors. Majors, Minors and Concentrations are available on your transcripts and will not be placed on the diploma. Graduate Students do not have honors distinction. 

  • Student’s name as listed on Step 3 and Step 4 of the application. 
  • College or School Name 
  • Degree Name 
  • University Name 
  • Date of Graduation 
  • Undergraduate Academic honors, if earned 
  • Undergraduate College honors, if earned 
  • Undergraduate Departmental honors, if earned 
  • No, we do not have digital copies. Contact Registrar. 
  • For more information, revisit https://www.memphis.edu/commencement/apply/index.php. 

 

DIPLOMA SIZES

Bachelor

14 across x 11 down

Masters

14 x 11

Doctoral

14 x 17

Juris Doctor (law)

14 x 17

Honorary

14 x 17

Joint BioMedical

14 x 17

Graduate Certificate

8.5 x 11

 

Damaged Diplomas

  • If your first diploma arrives damaged that we will mail to you, please contact us, and send photographs of the damage (diploma, mailer, etc. must be visible in the photo and damage must be easily seen and unfiltered, etc.). We will replace the diploma and send it back to the same address it was mailed originally. 

 

Understanding Second Majors & Graduate and Undergraduate Certificates

  • Second majors do not take part in the ceremony. Second majors do not receive a second diploma.
  • The University recognizes degrees. Although a student has a major area, we award degrees specifically. If your major falls within the same degree area or under the same degree name, this is considered a second major. If you or your Advisor do not clearly understand this process, contact your Graduation Analyst who are the experts in the area. Examples: If you obtained a Bachelor of Arts from the College of Communication and Fine Arts in 2000 with a major of Journalism, and then, you return to put more work into a major in History in 2025, this is considered a second major. Why? Although history is under the College of Arts & Sciences, both Journalism and History would earn a student a Bachelor of Arts degree (same degree type).
  • You cannot receive more than one degree in the same name. Therefore, the Bachelor of Arts diploma earned in 2000 is the diploma that stands. The additional/second major would be on the transcript only. A second major allows a student to have two different majors while overlapping coursework generally requiring less coursework than a dual/double major. 
  • Double Degrees do call for a second diploma:  The other major must be under a completely different degree type and unlike second majors, dual/double degrees will require additional coursework —most times doubling the coursework of an individual who only obtains a second major since the coursework is typically in common for the second major. Majors are not listed on the diploma. 

 

Graduate and Undergraduate Certificates

  • Graduate and undergraduate certificates are mailed at the same time as diplomas.
  • Graduates receiving only the graduate certificate, or the undergraduate certificate do not take part in the ceremony.
  • The Commencement ceremony is for those obtaining degrees only.

 

Where is my diploma?  

  • If you do not have your diploma by the 4-month date after Commencement, you have until 1 year to let us know.
  • Individuals who do not contact us by our deadline awill be charged the duplicate diploma fee of $20.00 for a copy of their diploma.
  • It is the graduate's responsibility to contact timely. 

 

More on Diplomas

  • Diplomas are mailed 4 months after each Commencement. They are not available for pick-up. 
  • The address on your Graduation Application is what we use. 
  • If you have an update to your address, email us one month after Commencement Day. Do not simply update your address with the University. Again, the address we use is the address that is listed on our graduation application. 
  • If you do not update your address by our deadline above, you will be charged for any reprints, if necessary.
  • We do not have digital copies. Please contact Registrar. 
  • If you have a financial obligation with the University, your diploma will not be processed or mailed until after we are notified that the fees are paid in full. To pay off any financial obligations visit student business services. 
  • Unofficial Transcripts can be found on your MyMemphis account and include your degree/conferral of degree information.
  • The official document of your degree is the Transcript and Degree Verification. The Registrar oversees Transcripts and Degree Verification for schools and jobs. You can reach them at 901-678-2810 or online at https://www.memphis.edu/registrar/. 
  • For academic related questions and overall certification of your degree, contact your Advisor or Graduation Analyst https://www.memphis.edu/commencement/graduates/graduation-analyst.php. 
  • Diplomas are mailed standard USPS. No tracking is available.

 

While masks are not currently required, as of this email, you are free to wear one. If you are experiencing any COVID/Flu like symptoms or other contagious viruses or have been exposed to COVID, etc., stay home from any of the above-mentioned events. Please share this with any guests who are scheduled to attend as well.

 By reading this information, you understand and agree to all its terms and conditions and that your participation in the commencement ceremony does not mean that students have graduated; degree conferral depends upon successful completion of all the degree requirements described in the Catalog of your Academic Program/College or School. All students are highly recommended to check with your department on all academic requirements. Diplomas are mailed 4 months after each graduating semester. They are not available earlier. There is a process of certification that must take place after each commencement, including checking grades and academic records.