• The commencement ceremony will be held in Vietnam Veterans' Memorial Amphitheater. In case of heavy rain prior to 9:30 a.m., we will move the ceremony to the gymnasium. Each graduate will receive two tickets for guests to view the ceremony in the gym. Other guests may view the ceremony on screen in the auditorium, the library browsing area, and the commuter cafeteria. In case of light rain, or if rain develops during the ceremony, we will remain in the amphitheater and the ceremony will be shortened.
  
  
• Although the ceremony itself starts at 11:00 am, the procession starts at approximately 10:40 a.m. If you wish to have seats, it is recommended that you arrive early since the crowd usually numbers over 5000. The procession will begin with the pealing of the campanile bells. Graduates arriving after the procession has begun will not be able to sit with their colleagues. Space will be provided at the end of the line and the graduate must be responsible for joining colleagues at the Registrar's table when their college is called. All students participating in commencement must be dressed in academic regalia, and assembled on the quadrangle by college at 9:45 a.m.
  
  
• Because of the formality of the ceremony, no usher will take gifts, notes or messages from any guest to any graduate. They will not take any photos. The graduates will be expected to remain seated during the ceremony. Do not plan to visit with the graduates during the ceremony. The campus police, marshals and ushers will assist in maintaining order.
  
  
• At the end of the ceremony, the recession will file out to the quadrangle.
  
  
• The campus welcomes all of your family for Commencement. We hope that everyone enjoys the day as much as possible. If you arrive early to secure seating, you may be in the amphitheater for three hours or longer. Many small children have difficulty remaining seated and quiet during the entire ceremony, and elderly people may find the seats uncomfortable. Given the variety of weather types possible, you may need sunscreen and a hat, or a warm coat, or an umbrella. We will have reserved seating areas for people with physical disabilities. Please inform Public Safety personnel as you enter the campus that you will need the reserved seating. If you have other special needs due to disability, please e-mail seniorclass@umassd.edu and we will have the appropriate person contact you.
  
  
• Prior to the ceremony, there will be a continental breakfast buffet for all graduates in two locations near their assembly areas. Family and friends may purchase breakfast from 8:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. in the Commuter Cafe. Continental fare is available for purchase from 8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. at the Magic Oven. Both are located in the MacLean Campus Center. An ecumenical religious service will be available for graduates and their families at 8:00 a.m. in the Auditorium. The University Campus Store will be open from 9 a.m. - 12 noon.

Sincerely,

Sonja S. Peterson, Chair
2003 Commencement Committee