Wearing of Academic Regalia

The cap is worn level, the shorter point to center front, and the tassel on the right front side (those with a masters or doctoral degree may position their tassel on the left front side). The hood is looped around the neck and hung down the back, the colors of the institution turned out at the back. All cords and sashes are to be worn under the hood. Personnel will be available at each ceremony to assist with the gowning.

Graduation caps may be decorated, but should be dignified, appropriate to a university graduation, and in conformity with La Sierra standards. Corporate logos should not be included on caps, stoles, or any other graduation accessories.

Seating Position

Candidates should check the graduation webpage, to find their assigned row and seat number. The alphabetical seating list will be available starting the Wednesday before graduation weekend.

Line Formation

Candidates form a single-file line according to the printed marching order distributed at the gowning/assembling area. The procession must be ready to proceed at 7:45 a.m. Candidates should find their places in line as quickly as possible and remain in line. Family and friends must refrain from taking candidates out of line for picture taking.

Procession Into the Convocation

Begins promptly at 8:00 a.m. Row leaders are given red cards that must be returned to the personnel at the seating area. Candidates will march inpairs and must listen carefully for instructions from personnel. Upon arriving at the seating area, all remain standing until the invocation is concluded. Men remove caps during prayer.

Presentation of the Candidates and Conferring of Degrees

At the conclusion of the commencement address, the Provost presents the candidates, asking them as a group to rise. While they are standing, the President then officially confers (on all simultaneously) the degrees for which they are qualified. At her signal, all are seated.

Awarding of Diplomas

At the direction of the marshal, each row stands one at a time and moves toward the platform for the candidates to receive their diplomas. Each candidate must present their grad pass to the readers (do not lose or mutilate the card). Upon returning to their seat, each candidate should be seated immediately.

Dismissal

A recessional follows the benediction. Please remain seated until the platform party exits the stage area. Graduates process out in two rows during this time as indicated by the ushers.

Photographs

An official photographer will photograph each candidate as they receives their diploma cover. Each candidate will be mailed a free download of that photo to their La Sierra email address. 

Parking

GUEST PARKING: Will be available in the following parking lots: Alumni Pavilion (gym), between Palmer Hall and Sierra Vista Hall, and by the Visual Art Center. Limited preferred parking will be available when you arrive through the main gate for $20 (please follow the signs). 

GRADUATE PARKING: To ensure we have enough time we are asking graduates to please arrive on campus between 6:15-6:45 a.m. the morning of Commencement. Please enter through the Raley Drive gate or the gate on Quiet Lane and park in the uppercampus parking lots. If you attempt to use the main gate on Riverwalk Parkway you will be late due to guest traffic build up. 

ADDITIONAL CEREMONY VIEWING WILL BE AVAILABLE: ONLINE at La Sierra Livestream and IN PERSON on Sunday in Hole Memorial Auditorium.