Saturday, May 13, 10 a.m.
Hawkins Arena, University Center
Graduation Fair
We will hold a graduation fair on March 2, 2017, in the student lounge from 10:00 a.m. – noon. Our vendor, who provides announcements, rings, caps and gowns, etc. will be here with display items and the bookstore will be here with Law School merchandise. Representatives from Law School departments will be there as well!
Rehearsal
Rehearsal will take place on Friday, May 12 at 11:00 a.m. in Hawkins Arena. Please arrive at the University Center-Hawkins Arena area by 10:45 am. We will go through the ceremony and do a walk through so everyone will feel comfortable with the process. This rehearsal will address any questions you have and alert the staff to any changes that need to be made. The rehearsal will last approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Graduation Day
9:00 a.m. – Doors will be unlocked for students. Guests may also arrive at that time. Students should report to the intramural courts.
Pictures
Photographs will be taken as graduates cross the platform. Arrangements for these pictures must be made March 2-15 (at the graduation fair on March 2 and through the Registrar's Office March 3-15, 2017). The cost is $15.00 (payable in advance) for two 5×7 reproducible prints–payable by cash or check only. Checks should be made out to Ken Hill Photography.
The University will also have a photographer taking photos during the ceremony. Pictures from Commencement will be on the School's SmugMug site. Students have the option to download or purchase these images (through SmugMug).
Tickets
No tickets are required. Seating is on a first-come, first-serve basis. There is a designated photo area for family/friends during commencement (facing the stage, the photo area is located on the left side of the arena near the stadium seats and marked with stanchions). No one is allowed on the arena floor during commencement.
Parking
Parking nearest to the University Center is limited to handicap parking only. See map of parking areas available during commencement. Trolley/Golf carts will pick up and drop off individuals in the designated parking areas to shuttle to/from the marked parking areas and University Center.
Live Stream
Commencement will be live streamed at law.mercer.edu/it/lawstream.cfm.
Regalia/Etiquette
The academic cap is worn level at all times. The tassel hangs on the left of the cap. The cap, tassel, gown and hood are considered the formal academic attire. Only cords approved by the University will be allowed. No other regalia or decoration is allowed.
Please hang up your gown prior to graduation day. Generally, the wrinkles will fall out after a day or two, but exposing them to steam will help hasten the process.
Suggested Commencement Attire for Women
Dark dress or pants, cool fabric Dark low heel or flat shoes No jeans No high collars or bows at the neck No corsages or jewelry on the robe No sneakers, no flip-flops
Suggested Commencement Attire for Men
Dark trousers, white shirts, tie is optional Dark dress shoes and socks No jeans No sandals, no sneakers, no flip-flops
Ceremony Etiquette
Improper attire, signs, and insignia are not acceptable and will be removed by the marshals. Cell phones should be turned off. Personal items should not be left in the intramural area. Please leave them with your family or friends.
Law School Open House
Following the commencement ceremony, the Law School will be open until 2:00 p.m. for families to stop by. Refreshments will be provided in the lobby.
Further Information
Please contact Patsy Crammer at 478-301-2621 or crammer_pb@law.mercer.edu at least one week prior to the event to request alternative formats or accessible seating due to a disability. In all situations, a good faith effort will be made to provide accommodations. Handicapped/ADA parking is available on the upper lot adjacent to the UC (with an official tag or decal).
