The Unified Commencement Ceremony honors the graduating students from all of the university's schools and colleges. Tickets are not required. Doors open at 7:30 a.m. For additional details visit the Student and Guest information pages on the Commencement website.

Wave Goodbye is an annual party for graduates that is modeled after New Orleans' many springtime festivals. All graduates and their guests are invited to mingle on Gibson Quad on the uptown campus on Friday, May 18, 6-8 p.m. The event features local music and a variety of New Orleans food in small plates. Wine and beer will be available for purchase (cash only). Graduates are allotted seven tickets each, one of which the graduate will need to use to enter the party. Children 10 years and younger do not need tickets.