Your Commencement 

Commencement is a time of celebration of all you've achieved and become. In addition to crossing the stage, there are a number of ways in which you can not only continue the celebration but also honor the people who helped you along the way.

Commencement speakers

There are typically several speaker roles for graduates to fill at both the undergraduate and graduate commencement ceremonies:

Coordinator of Ceremony: Serves as the emcee for graduation. Addresses the audience multiple times throughout the ceremony.

Invocator: Says an inclusive prayer near the beginning of the ceremony.

Student Speaker: Celebratory remarks to and on behalf of the graduating class (length of speech: 5-7 minutes).

Speaking roles are awarded based on an audition process. You can find additional information on the graduation Moodle courses (titled Undergrad Graduation and Graduate Graduation). Email graduation@alverno.edu to learn more.

Cultural ceremonies

The Cultural Ceremonies (Bestowing of the Kente and LatinX con Fuerza) are culturally grounded rites of passage in which we honor our graduates and their African and Latin heritage. The ceremonies also provide an opportunity for graduates to recognize and express deep gratitude to those family, friends and loved ones who supported their collegiate journey. Graduates who participate will have a stole bestowed upon them as part of the ceremony as a special message of thanks is read aloud.  

Graduating students who would like to participate in this beautiful ritual must complete a participation form and purchase a stole.  Family, friends and loved ones are welcome to attend. No ticket is necessary for this event, and a reception will immediately follow.  Contact graduation@alverno.edu with questions.

SAVE THE DATE: Saturday, May 11 - Bestowing of the Kente, LatinX Con Fuerza and Asian American/Pacific Islander (AAPI) & Middle Eastern Rites of Passage will be held the Sister Joel Read Conference Center. Times are TBD. Receptions will immediately follow each ceremony.