Commencement

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How do I RSVP to walk in this year's ceremony?
A. Please fill out the Commencement RSVP form located here.

Q. When and where should I show up the day up my ceremony?
A. Please arrive 60 minutes ahead of time and park in any of the designated lots. Graduates are then meeting over at the side parking lot of Votta Hall where you will check-in. Your guests can make their way over to Quad to find seating.

Q. How much is my cap and gown?
A. There is no charge for a cap and gown, as long as you pick it up from the RCBC Bookstore between Monday, April 29 and Monday, May 6.

Q. Where do I pick my size for my cap and gown?
A. You will be fitted for your gown when you pick it up from the Bookstore.

Q. Will there be an on-campus commencement rehearsal?
A. No, there will be no on-campus rehearsal, but keep checking the Commencement website for updates.

Q. Where should guests and family park?
A. Recommended parking lots for guests are Lots 1, 6, 9 and 10.

Q. How will seating for the ceremony be set up?
A. Guest seating for all commencement ceremonies will be in the campus quad. Tickets are not required, but chairs will be set in pods of 4. Please note guests may not move chairs. Restrooms will be available in Laurel Hall and the Student Success Center.

Q. Will the ceremony be live streamed?
A. Yes! Subscribe to our YouTube channel to get notifications about the live stream.

Q. What happens if it rains or there is bad weather the date of commencement?
A. In the event of inclement weather, that day's ceremonies will be moved to Thursday, May 16.

Q. What are the accommodations for handicapped guests?
A. The ceremony will be held on the quad area, which is grass. There are sidewalks from the parking lots and all around the grass area, and there is handicapped parking available close to the quad. If you have a family member with limited mobility, there will be close drop off points for them, and there will be a paved seating area available if they can't maneuver onto the grass. Please note that the paved seating area is separate from the general guest seating area, and is limited to the person with limited mobility and one other person who may sit with them. The rest of your guests must sit in the general seating area.

Q. I’m not attending the ceremony, how do I get my diploma?
A. The Registration Department will email information about diploma pickup days later this summer.

Q. Are tickets required for guests to enter the ceremony?
A. Tickets are NOT required for any of the outdoor ceremonies. If inclement weather forces the ceremony indoors, we will send out communication and instructions for ticket pickup.