2021 Commencement Frequently Asked Questions
IN-PERSON 2021 COMMENCEMENT WALK FAQs
Who is eligible to participate in the 2021 Commencement Walk?
Only Class of 2021 graduates who are pre-registered to attend can participate.
What is the deadline to register to attend 2021 Commencement Walk?
You must register no later than Monday, May 3, 2021 by 5 p.m. to participate in the 2021 Commencement Walk.
Are the 2021 Commencement Walks limited in size?
Due to health and safety reasons and directives from the RI Department of Health, each Commencement Walk is limited to
250 candidates and up to 2 guests per candidate.
How do I know if I successfully registered to attend the Commencement Walk?
You will receive an email with further instructions in the coming week confirming your participation and to register your guests.
I am receiving more than ONE degree from more than one school, which Commencement Walk do I attend?
If you are receiving degrees from more than one school, you may choose which Commencement Walk you would like to participate in. When you purchase your regalia make sure you indicate which Commencement Walk you will be attending to ensure you are wearing be correct academic colors.
Do I still need to submit a negative COVID-19 test?
No, you do not!
Are guests allowed to attend Commencement Walk?
Up to two guests are allowed per each candidate. Guests must also register to attend.
Does my child count as one of my guests?
A child under three years old who would be able to sit on a lap would not be counted as a guest.
What do I wear to my designated Commencement Walk?
You must be in cap & gown to attend the Commencement Walk. Regalia can be purchased at the Bookstore Monday-Friday from 10 a.m.- 2 p.m.
Where on the Rhode Island College campus is the Commencement Walk taking place?
Your Commencement Walk will take place on the Black Track Field. If it rains, your Commencement Walk will be moved to the Recreation Center.
Where do I park when I arrive on campus?
Parking lot B (large lot next to the Track Field. Regardless of the location Track (or Recreation Center if it rains) you will be directed to parking lot B.
When do I arrive for my Commencement Walk?
Check in time for your designated Commencement Walk is noted on the Commencement webpage
www.ric.edu/commencement
What time does my Commencement Walk start?
Your Commencement Walk start time is noted on the Commencement webpage –
www.ric.edu/commencement
What do I need to check-in at my designated Commencement Walk?
- Your RIC photo ID
- Bring a copy of your pre-registered information for your Commencement Walk
- Mask
What does Check-in for your Commencement Walk involve
- Station #1: Verification that you have pre-registered and that you are eligible to participate in the Class of 2021 Commencement Walk
- Station #2: Pick up your Commencement packet and marching card.
What happens after I complete checking in?
You will be directed to your chair on the track field (or Recreation Center if it is raining)
What happens during my designated Commencement Walk?
We will not have the usual pomp and circumstances associated with a usual Commencement ceremony. Commencement Walk will consist of:
- A brief welcome by President Sánchez and Provost Tate and your Dean. The Dean of your School will present the candidates of your school to the President. The President will confer your degrees and will call upon to receive your diploma -- Commencement Walk
- We will direct you to the bottom of the ramp
- You will give your marching card to the name reader, your name will be read and you will walk across the ramp
- Once you complete your Commencement Walk you will proceed to get your official Commencement photo taken
What happens once I get my photo taken?
We will ask you to leave the track field (or Rec Center) and go back to the parking lot.
We are discouraging anyone from congregating during or after the ceremony due to health and safety reasons.
How do I get my official Commencement photo taken?
GradImages, the official Commencement photographer will be on hand to take your photo. Your proofs will be emailed to you. You are not under any obligation to make a purchase.
How will my family and friends be able to view my Commencement Walk?
Family and friends will be able to view your Commencement Walk via livestream. Visit
www.ric.edu to find the link the day of your school’s celebration.
2021 VIRTUAL COMMENCEMENT FAQs
How is Virtual Commencement different from Commencement Walk?
Virtual Commencement is pre-recorded and will be located on the website. It will consist of greetings from President Sánchez, Class President Maria Gaskell, and the Alumni Association, as well as the Dean from each school. Following the Dean's message, student photos will be displayed. Student names will appear under each photo.
The Commencement Walk is a live-in person event. Students who have pre-registered will have the opportunity to walk across the stage, while their name is read and have an opportunity for a commencement photo. Eligible candidates may participate in both the virtual and in-person options.
What is the deadline to submit a photograph for the Virtual Commencement?
You must submit no later than Monday, May 3, 2021 by 5 p.m. to have your photograph included in the 2021 Virtual Commencement.
Can I submit a photo for Virtual Commencement and attend my school’s Commencement Walk?
Absolutely!
Can I submit a photo for Virtual Commencement that includes family members (and pets)?
Absolutely!
When will the Virtual Commencement Ceremony information be available?
We will let you know the date/time and web address of where to find Virtual Commencement information.
HONOR CORDS
How will I receive my academic honor cords?
Honor cords will be given to you at your Commencement Walk. If you do not attend, your cord will be mailed to you with your diploma.
Can I wear other earned Honor Society chords?
Any earned academic cord or accessories (pins, etc.) may be worn on the day of your Commencement Walk
OTHER
May I decorate my cap for my Commencement Walk?
Absolutely!
When will I receive my diploma?
Your diploma will be mailed 4-6 weeks after your Commencement Walk. Please check MyRIC to see if your home address is correct.
Diplomas are mailed to your home address.
