Commencement FAQs

Commencement Ceremony

How long is the ceremony?

The ceremony begins promptly at 10 a.m. and usually lasts about two hours, concluding around noon Central.

Will tickets or registration be required for guests?

At this time, no tickets will be required for the Commencement ceremony.

How many guests can graduates bring?

We are planning on having an in-person and fully open commencement weekend. Currently, there is no limitation on the number of guests that graduates can bring.

What seating is available for guests?

There is designated seating for graduates and faculty. There is also a large seating area for guests that is first-come first-serve.

What accessibility options are available to attendees?

There is a limited reserved seating available for those with mobility issues as well as for those in need of an American Sign Language interpreter. To reserve a seat, please email commencement@lawrence.edu. Please note that due to this seating being limited, families may not be able to sit together in this section.

What if it rains? Will there be an indoor venue?

Commencement will be held on Main Hall Green, rain or shine. In the event of severe weather, Lawrence will notify attendees via social media (including Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter), on the website homepage, to graduates via email, and the event will be moved to Memorial Chapel.

Will the commencement ceremony be live-streamed?

Yes, the ceremony will be live-streamed starting at 10 a.m. Central. A link to the stream will be available on the Commencement main page. 

When will I be able to order my regalia?

All regalia, including caps, gowns, and tassels, is provided to graduating seniors by the Lawrence University Alumni Association (LUAA). 

The deadline to order regalia is May 10, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. Central.

Regalia can be picked up on Wednesday, June 11, and Thursday, June 12 at the Warch Campus Center, Somerset Room from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Will I receive my diploma at Commencement? 

Graduates will not receive their diplomas at Commencement. Digital diplomas will be emailed to graduates the week after the Commencement ceremony, and a paper diploma will be mailed to graduates in early July. Graduates will receive a diploma cover during the formal ceremony.

Will graduates’ honors be recognized? 

As in years past, honors will be recognized in the Commencement program and on individual diplomas and transcripts.

Will graduates receive cords? 

While the university does not provide cords or stoles, these items may be provided by individual Honor Societies, other student groups, or organizations symbolizing their membership or achievements.

Travel & Logistics

When will graduating seniors need to be out of residence halls? 

Graduating seniors should complete their move out of campus housing by 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, June 15. 

What transportation options are available to individuals who will be traveling to Appleton by plane or other means? 

Individuals who will travel to Appleton via plane or other public transportation should plan to make personal arrangements for transportation to and from campus. The following rental car companies are available at the Appleton airport: Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, National.

Local taxi service is available from the following companies: Fox Valley Cab (920-734-4545) and A Cab Neenah Menasha (920 809-5995).

Is there any road construction I should be aware of on campus?

Please note that the Lawe Street Bridge is closed for maintenance through August 1st. Recommended routes around the bridge are marked on the map below and include:

• College Avenue - John Street - E. South River
• Drew Street - E. Water Street - S. Olde Oneida Street - E. South River 

Are there any negotiated rates on lodging in the area?

Are there any direct flights to Appleton?