Commencement Ceremony Fall 2009

All Graduates:
University Commencement represents the culmination of a student's academic achievement. It is a time of celebration and reflection for students, families, friends, faculty and staff. It brings together a diverse community to share in the joy of accomplished goals.

Ceremony Instructions

Procession: The academic procession will begin promptly on time and marks the start of the commencement ceremony. The ceremony should last no longer than one and one-half hours. Members of the graduating class will process to the reserved seat area in the AASU Sports Center. Your student marshal will direct you to the appropriate seating location for your college. You should remain standing until all candidates have arrived on the floor, faculty have arrived at their seats, and the Platform Party has reached its place on the stage. You will continue standing for The National Anthem.

Presentation of Candidates: The Dean of each college or school will present the candidates for the various degrees to the President. The President will deliver the conferral remarks. The candidates for the various degrees will then be asked to approach the stage for presentation. Candidates will:

1. ascend the ramp on the right hand side of the stage
2. hand the Reader Card to their Dean
3. wait for their name and academic honor, if applicable, to be spoken
4. walk across the stage to be greeted by the President
5. have their picture taken
6. descend the ramp on the left side of the stage
7. proceed to the second photo station with flags
8. return to their seat

Recession: The ceremony will conclude with a formal recessional led by the platform party, followed by the faculty, and ending with the degree candidates. Your college marshal will direct your exit of the AASU Sports Center floor.