Dear graduate,
Commencement is just a couple weeks away – make sure you and your guests are ready to go by checking out some of the most frequently asked questions!
The word “graduation” is used to describe when you complete your degree requirements. “Commencement” is the official term for the walking in the graduation ceremony. Participating in commencement does not mean you have graduated. For more information on degree requirements, application status, etc. visit the Office of the Registrar.
May 2024 graduates DO NOT have to submit a special RSVP to participate (or not participate) in the commencement ceremonies.
There is NO rehearsal for graduates. There will be a large team of NKU volunteers at Truist Arena during commencement to direct graduates and answer questions.
Tickets are NOT required for guests or graduates and there is no limit on the number of guests who may attend. Guest seating will be on a first-come, first served basis.
All ceremonies will be streamed live on nku.edu/commencement for graduates or guests who are joining virtually. The live stream is not available until Sunday, May 5. Videos of the ceremonies will be available for on-demand viewing after the event under previous ceremonies and on the NKU YouTube channel.
May 2024 undergraduate students who qualify for University Honors (essentially, GPA of 3.50 and above) can pick up honor cords at your dean's office OR upon arrival at the commencement ceremony on May 5. If you don’t attend your ceremony, you can also pick up your cords at your dean's office. Please note that master and doctoral candidates are not eligible for University Honors cords.
*If your honors status changes after the final semester grades have been turned in, your diploma will reflect that. However, the commencement program will list what we have at the time of print.
Yes! GradImages will be photographing all graduates at the upcoming commencement ceremonies. Professional photographers will take three different pictures of each graduate and send proofs to you directly via email a few days after your ceremony. Register now and save 20% off your purchase of $50 or more.
Yes, but please be tasteful. No obscene logos or offensive content will be tolerated.
Bachelor students wear tassels on right side until their degrees are conferred. President Short-Thompson will direct you during the ceremony when it’s time to move your tassels to the left side.
If you are a graduate student, the tassel starts on the left side of your cap or tam. You will leave it there throughout the ceremony, symbolizing that you have already graduated before.
Please review the very important Graduate Arrival and Lineup information to learn what to expect when you arrive. Doors will open to guests and graduates one hour before the ceremony begins. Only graduates can enter the Vault door. Family and friends enter the front of the arena or the East Gate entrance.
Please review the very important Guest information page to share with your family and friends.
Families, friends, faculty and even graduates themselves can send a message of congratulations or thanks that will appear on Truist Arena’s Ribbon Boards at commencement.
Visit www.nku.edu/commencement for the most up-to-date information about the commencement ceremonies, including guest policies and seating, accessibility and parking, social media cover photos, FAQ and more.
We look forward to celebrating with you on May 5!
Best regards,
Krista
Krista Wiseman-Moore
Director of Special Events
Kara
Kara Olding
Assistant Director of Special Events
