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FAQs

Q: What is the Unified Commencement Ceremony?

A: The Unified Commencement Ceremony honors the graduating students from all of the university's schools and colleges. It features the pomp and circumstance expected of a traditional Commencement celebration but with a New Orleans twist. At this ceremony you can expect to see the procession of graduates and faculty, the conferral of degrees and hear live jazz.

Ellen DeGeneres was the Commencement 2009 keynote speaker. Recent keynote speakers include President George H. W. Bush, President William J. Clinton, NBC news anchor Brian Williams and political commentators James Carville and Mary Matalin.

Tickets are not required.

Q: When do graduates receive their diplomas?

A: Diploma ceremonies follow the Unified Commencement Ceremony on May 15.  Undergraduates will receive their diplomas at the Undergraduate Diploma Ceremony in the Superdome. Graduate and professional students will attend separate diploma ceremonies.  It is at the diploma ceremonies that a graduate's name will be called and he or she will walk across the stage.

Q: Are tickets required to Wave Goodbye?

A: Yes, tickets are required. Each graduating student can receive a maximum of seven tickets, one of which the student will need to use to enter the party. Tickets will be available for download from this website in the weeks before the party.

Q: What is Grad Fest?  When is it?

A: Grad Fest is held in the spring for students to order their academic regalia. Grad Fest 2010 will be March 16-17.

Q: How early may guests arrive for Commencement?

A: The doors will open at 7:30 a.m. The Superdome will conduct bag checks on all guests so please plan your arrival time accordingly.

Q: What about parking?

A. You can park at the Superdome for a fee.

Also, students and their families may utilize the free shuttle service from Tulane's uptown campus.

Q: When do the students need to arrive?

A: Students should arrive no later than 8 a.m. The Superdome will conduct bag checks on all guests so please plan your arrival time accordingly.

Allow extra time to find a place to park, go through security and get to your robing location. Someone from your school will be in the room to help you robe. All personal items must be left with your parents or guests. Tulane University will not be responsible for any lost or stolen items. (The Bookstore will have a station in the robing area with extra caps, gowns, etc., in case of any problems.)

Q: On what side do students wear the tassel?

A: The graduation cap tassel starts out on the right side (over the right eye) before the ceremony and the tassel is moved to the left side (over the left eye) as soon as the graduate crosses the stage and descends the stairs.

Q: When do the faculty need to arrive?

A: Faculty robing is at 8:15 a.m. The Superdome will conduct bag checks on all guests so please plan your arrival time accordingly.

Q: When do things start?

A: Live music starts at 8:30 a.m. The colorful academic procession starts at 9 a.m. and the stage ceremony at the conclusion of the procession, no later than 9:30 a.m.

Q: How long will the unified ceremony last?

A: About 90 minutes. The undergraduate diploma ceremony will continue almost immediately afterward (approximately 11 a.m.) until about 1 p.m.

Q: What items can I bring into the Superdome?

A: Guests can bring cameras and their own flowers. We suggest you not transport wrapped packages into the Dome. Here are other items prohibited by the Superdome:

• Helium balloons
• Cans, bottles, coolers, or containers of any kind
• Laser pens or laser products of any types
• Sticks or poles that exceed 42 inches
• Fireworks
• Any type of beverages or food
• Oversized packages
• Oversized luggage
• Weapons and contraband of any type
• Animals and pets (except those assisting an ADA patron)
• Glitter
• Stickers or adhesive tape
• Rope
• Any other item(s) determined to be unacceptable by the Louisiana Superdome
  

 
Q: What about attendees who are physically challenged?

A: Guests with physical challenges should enter through gate A (Poydras St.) on the ground level. This entrance is a covered drop-off area for disabled access. Wheelchairs will be available for transportation to and from handicapped seating; however, for those who wish to have a wheelchair with them at all times, it will be necessary to bring one with you.

Handicapped-accessible shuttle service will be available.