Frequently asked questions about the May University Commencement Ceremony
What about parking?
The Kovalchick Complex has its own parking lot that will accomodate 250 cars. Other parking areas on campus will be open, and a shuttle will be running to bus people between the lots and the Kovalchick Complex. More detailed parking information will be available closer to the event.
Do I need an admission ticket to the University Commencement Ceremony?
Yes. Each graduate may request up to three tickets for family, friends, and relatives at the Salute to Seniors Day at the IUP Co-op Store on March 31. You must have a ticket to gain access to the Kovalchick Complex. If you do not have a ticket, but still wish to watch the ceremony, you may go to one of the alternate viewing areas on campus to see a live video feed of the ceremony. Alternate viewing locations are Toretti Auditorium inside the Kovalchick Complex, Eberly Auditorium, and Fisher Auditorium.
Are there accommodations for guests with special needs?
The Kovalchick Complex has accommodations for handicapped parking and special needs seating. These needs will be taken care of by the event staff at Commencement. There is ADA-compliant seating for guests with special needs, along with elevator access, and the ushers will direct your guest to the concourse level where this seating is available.
How will I know if my son/daughter will be receiving a special award?
Honors medallions will be available for pick-up at the Salute to Graduates in the spring for first baccalaureate May graduates who attained a 3.25 or higher cumulative grade point average at IUP before the Spring semester began. After that event, medallions may be picked up at the Registrar’s Office in Clark Hall during regular business hours. A student must present his or her I-Card to receive a medallion.
Is there space on campus for a private reception after Commencement?
Because of so many events already taking place on campus, we are unable to offer space for private functions.
When and where do the graduates report on Commencement day?
All graduates participating in the procession and ceremony must report to the Eberly parking lot area directly behind the Kovalchick Complex by 10:00 a.m. This area may be reached by following South 11th Street past the Memorial Field House toward the Eberly College of Business or by following Pratt Drive towards the Eberly College of Business. Undergraduates will line up according to college, while master’s degree candidates will line up together. Event staff members will be on hand to direct students to the proper line. The procession into the Kovalchick Complex will begin at 10:30 a.m. Doctoral students robe inside the Kovalchick Complex and will be sent further instructions by the Graduate School.
What about a cap and gown?
Our contact for caps and gowns is the IUP Co-op Store, located in the Hadley Union Building. The store is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.; Saturday from 11:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.; and on Commencement Day from 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. The cost of a cap and gown, which the student may keep, is $29.95 for associate’s and bachelor’s candidates; $59.95 for master’s candidates and $70.95 for doctoral candidates.
For questions regarding caps and gowns, phone the Co-op Store at 724-357-3145, extension 0; or 1-800-537-7916, extension 0.
