As Commencement approaches, we want to make sure your guests are prepared for the day. Please review the important information below and share it with your family and friends.
Morning Commencement Ceremony
Saturday, May 9, 2026
10 a.m. at Truist Arena
College of Arts and Sciences, College of Informatics, College of Education
Afternoon Commencement Ceremony
Saturday, May 9, 2026
3:30 p.m. at Truist Arena
Haile College of Business, College of Health and Human Services
Accessible parking and seating for guests:
Parking is free in all campus surface lots and garages on May 9. Accessible parking is available on all levels of the Arena Parking Garage and in Lot O. Guests may also be dropped off at the Truist Arena circle drive, located off Nunn Drive. Guests parking in Lot O should enter through the East Gate entrance.
Accessible seating is available on the concourse level. Arena staff and Guest Services can assist with seating and elevator access.
Visit the commencement website for maps and additional accessibility details.
What guests can expect on commencement day:
Guests can arrive through the main entrance of Truist Arena starting at 8:30 a.m. (morning ceremony) or 2 p.m. (afternoon ceremony). Graduates check in separately. All attendees are subject to security screening. Please review our commencement website in advance for information on bag checks and prohibited items.
The ceremony begins at 10 a.m. (morning) and 3:30 p.m. (afternoon) and will last approximately 2–2.5 hours. Guests are asked to remain for the entire ceremony to support all graduates.
Following the ceremony, graduates will exit the arena and reunite with guests outside (or on the concourse level in case of inclement weather).
Truist ribbon board messages:
Invite your family and friends to create a memory with a personalized message on Truist Arena’s Ribbon Boards.
Messages may be submitted now through May 6 at 12 p.m.
Flowers:
Bouquets are permitted in the arena (subject to security screening).
Flowers will also be available for purchase at Truist. Guests are encouraged to pre-order for contact-free pickup.
*Flower sales are managed by NKU’s Golden Key chapter. Please direct all questions to the vendor listed on the website.
Please visit our commencement website for more information.
We look forward to celebrating with you!
Kara Olding
Associate Director, Alumni Engagement and Special Events
oldingk2@nku.edu
