Graduation Planning and Information
Commencement ceremonies for Cornell’s Class of 2009 are rapidly approaching! This information is meant to assist you with tasks related to your student’s graduation and departure from Cornell.
A list of some Mount Vernon area hotels and bed and breakfasts is available at http://www.cornellcollege.edu/admissions/visit-cornell/hotel-accommodations.shtml. Most of the places listed are in Cedar Rapids or Iowa City, and are approximately 20 or 25 minutes from campus.
If you have questions or concerns regarding commencement activities, contact Michelle Long in the Student Affairs Office at 319-895-4234 or at mlong@cornellcollege.edu.
Baccalaureate service: A touching Cornell tradition during this special weekend is the Baccalaureate service that includes a processional and recessional performed by College organist Lynda Hakken, a brief sermon by the College chaplain, Catherine Quehl-Engel, and words from the hearts and minds of graduating seniors. This event usually lasts about an hour and is optional for seniors. Family members should arrive early as King Chapel typically fills for this event which begins at 9 a.m.
Commencement service: This culminating moment in your student’s college experience is celebrated with traditional rituals including mortarboards, gowns and various displays of pomp and circumstance. This event features traditions more unique to Cornell such as a keynote speaker from the senior class and the senior line arranged by student preference instead of alphabetically or by major. Doors will open at noon, family members and friends should find their seats in the arena by 1:15 p.m. at the latest. Adequate seating is available for all who wish to attend. This event usually concludes by 4 p.m.
Accessibility: Please notify Michelle Long in the Dean of Students Office if you or someone in your party has a disability so that assistance can be arranged. Parking on campus is limited, so be sure to allow extra time. There are several parking lots on campus, but a ten-minute walk may be required. The area directly in front of the sports center will be reserved for the Commencement ceremony so that drivers can drop off and pick up passengers. For wheelchair access to King Chapel, the Library parking lot has an area for drop-off and access to an elevator to bring you up to the main campus walkway. A chairlift is available at the east end of King Chapel. There is a 200-pound weight limit for the chairlift, and staff will be available to provide assistance. At the Small Multi-Sports Center, access for individuals with disabilities is available at the northwest entrance at the back of the arena. This entrance will be identified and staff will be available to direct you. Bathroom accessibility may be challenging for guests with disabilities in both King Chapel and the Sports Center.
Interpreter: An ASL interpreter will sign during both the Baccalaureate and Commencement ceremonies. When entering, let an usher know if you need seating within vision of the interpreter.
Emergency medical assistance: Emergency medical staff will be available near the rear of the auditoriums for both events. Contact an usher or the Information Center if you need assistance.
Information Centers:
The Commons (upper level) - 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Small Multi-Sports Center (north end) - 12:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Photography:During the Commencement ceremony, a professional photographer from Chappell - Aardvark Studio will photograph each graduate as he or she accepts the diploma from President Garner. Color proofs of the photo will be sent to you approximately one week after graduation. Click here to pre-register your email address.
News Release: The College will send a news release to your local newspaper shortly after Commencement. The actual printing of that news release is at the discretion of the paper.
Graduation Bouquets: Roses are the perfect gift to present your graduate following the Commencement ceremonies. Bouquets of a dozen roses will be available for purchase at $15 through the “early bird” order form which will be mailed to parents this spring, or for $20 at commencement, while supplies last. Watch your mail to take advantage of the savings and selection. This flower sale is a fundraiser for CASA (Cornell Alumni Student Association), which sponsors the Senior Dinner free of charge to all seniors during commencement week.
Insurance: A variety of insurance companies offer short-term coverage to graduates between graduation and the time they acquire benefits from employers. Check with your insurance carrier if your son or daughter needs coverage.
Moving Out: All residence halls close at 6 p.m. on Saturday, May 30. Please remind your senior to plan ahead, as packing takes longer than they think!
