Illinois Commencement FAQ
For Participants
When will I receive specific information regarding June Commencement?
Degree candidates and commencement participants will typically begin receiving emails with “to-do action items” in early February. This email includes information for cap and gown ordering, name and hometown verification for the diploma and program, and any updated information concerning Commencement events.
Am I registered for the ceremony? I have not received information about the ceremony.
Registered Commencement participants will receive emails through their NLU e-mail account periodically with reminders about ordering your regalia, and upcoming events and information for graduating students.
Registered participants will receive their commencement tickets electronically to their NLU e-mail account in early June. Please make sure you continue to check your NLU account for information, details, and tickets.
If you are not receiving information, and you completed your Degree Finalization Request, stating you would attend the Illinois Ceremony, please contact the Commencement Office at 312-261-3300 or commencement@nl.edu
What events do I need to attend?
All graduates are encouraged to take part in their departmental and college Commencement-related events. Many graduates traditionally participate in the Commencement, and the University Commencement Ceremony on Saturday. Please visit the Schedule of Events page.
How many tickets will I receive?
All graduates will receive a minimum of 4 guest tickets. More tickets may become available, however the Commencement Office will not confirm additional ticket
Tickets will be sent electronically to the graduate. The graduate will then be able to distribute to their guests. Tickets will be checked at the door. Electronic or printed tickets will be accepted.
At this time, there are no extra tickets available. No extra tickets are available for purchase. Should more tickets become available, we will distribute them on a first come, first serve basis.
Cap and gown/Hooding protocol
An integral part of the Commencement Ceremony is the hooding of doctoral graduates. The doctoral hood, carried on stage by the graduates, is placed over the head and onto the shoulders, symbolizing support of the graduate and passing on of knowledge between one generation of doctorates to another. Generally, the faculty advisor, dissertation chair, or another faculty member of the dissertation committee performs the hooding. Asking and arranging for a faculty member to hood a student is left to the discretion of the graduate.
Masters graduates should wear their hood at the start of the ceremony. Place the hood around your neck and shoulders so that the major portion hangs down the back and the velvet is up. Fasten the cord in front of the hood to your shirt, dress or gown to keep the hood away from your neck. We will have safety pins at graduate check in should you need something to fasten your hood. Fasten the cord in the back of the hood to the button that is at the top back of the hood. The cord helps to keep the hood in place to show the lining.
Graduates receiving an Undergraduate degree are required to wear academic regalia, which includes a cap and gown provided by Herff Jones. The cap, also known as a mortarboard, should be worn flat on the head with the tassel on the right side. The gown should be fully zipped and worn with the front panel hanging evenly. Graduates are encouraged to wear appropriate attire beneath the gown, such as business or business-casual clothing.
Kendall College graduates receiving an Associates degree or certificate have a unique and exciting tradition. Instead of the traditional cap and gown, these graduates are invited to showcase their culinary achievements by participating in the commencement ceremony wearing a distinctive alumni chef jacket.
It is essential to adhere to the specified guidelines to ensure a uniform and dignified appearance during the ceremony. If you have additional questions or concerns regarding attire, please contact the Commencement Office at commencement@nl.edu.
More information regarding the ordering for graduate regalia can be found here.
Photography
GradImages® is the official photographer and will be taking individual photos of each graduate at the Commencement Ceremony. Proofs will be emailed and/or mailed to students along with information for ordering prints.
To expedite your proofs, please visit GradImages website to pre-register your contact information at www.gradimages.com or they can be reached at 800-261-2576.
For Guests
Accessibility Information for Guests
Guests in need of accommodations of wheelchair seating, require a sign language interpreter, are mobility impaired, but not in a wheelchair, or need any other assistance, NLU and the Venue will provide reasonable accommodations. Please email or call the Commencement Office at 312-261-3300 or commencement@nl.edu.
Venue ushers will assist guests with special needs in finding seats. The venue does not provide wheelchairs for guest transportation. Guests who cannot walk long distances should be dropped off at the drop off location.
Live Web Stream
Family and friends unable to attend the ceremony are invited to view a live webcast of Saturday's Commencement Ceremony, featuring the Commencement speaker's address and the conferral of awards and degrees.
Visitor Information
Guest tickets are required for entrance to the commencement ceremony. Tickets will be provided to graduates in late May for distribution.
