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Graduation and Commencement

Graduates will indicate if they would like to attend the Commencement ceremony on their graduation application, which is completed through Self Service. If a graduate RSVPs yes on the graduation application, no further action is needed and their request to attend Commencement has been recorded. Any graduates who would like to attend the May Commencement and did not RSVP yes when completing their graduation application can reach out to the Registrar's Office at regis@ashland.edu to update their Commencement attendance.

• The online regalia catalog lists the regalia, honor cords and tassels for graduates, including undergraduate tassels, master degree regalia, doctoral degree regalia, seminary regalia and the medallions worn at Commencement ceremonies.
• Custom printed announcements, Ashland diploma frames and commemorative rings are also available at the Ashland University Campus Store. Place your order online at www.ashlandbookstore.com or call 419-289-5336.
• All graduates picking up caps, gowns and tassels at the Campus Store will need a picture I.D. If someone else is picking them up, they will need written permission from you. On Commencement day, the Campus Store, located in the Student Center, will be open from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m.
• All graduates should complete the Graduation Survey prior to Commencement. Survey invitations will be emailed four weeks prior to graduation. All students who complete the survey will receive 25% off one regularly-priced item at the Campus Store. (graduation regalia excluded) Respondents will also be entered into a drawing for alumni and Handshake packages; and one winner will receive a free AU diploma frame.

Graduates are to assemble at 9 a.m. at the designated lineup area. Faculty volunteers will assist you in lining up according to the degree you are receiving. You will be given a card with your name and honors listed.

At 9:55 a.m. the processional will begin with the platform party proceeding to the stage. The faculty and students will proceed to seating on the field.

Beverages, snacks and sandwiches will be available to purchase from 9 a.m. to the end of the graduate ceremony. Cash and credit cards are accepted.

If you need to stay overnight, here’s a list of local accommodations.

EagleEye Photography will take photos of each graduate during the ceremony and graduates will be contacted about photos available for purchase. Students may also pre-register for graduation photos. If you have questions, contact EagleEye Photography.

To help you celebrate your graduate's achievement, the Ashland University Honors Program offers roses for Commencement at the pre-ordered price of $30 per dozen. Rose pre-orders will be available later in the spring semester.

Rose orders will be available for pickup from 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. on the morning of Commencement. Proceeds from the sale will support the next Honors Program study abroad trip. Rose bouquets are typically given to the graduate after the ceremony.

A variety of colors will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Quantities are limited and colors cannot be reserved. Rose orders must be picked up BY 10 a.m. or they will be donated to a local charity. If you have questions, please contact Rebecca Schaaf, Honors Program Coordinator, at rschaaf@ashland.edu or 419-289-5260.

• Diplomas will be mailed beginning two weeks after commencement. All accounts with the Business Office, Library, Campus Store and Dean of Students must be cleared before your diploma will be mailed to you. For any questions about your diploma, please contact the Registrar’s Office.
• Latin honors bestowed on graduates and listed in the Commencement program are based solely on Ashland University achievements. These honors will reflect total grade point averages through summer semester and will be recalculated for final status on the official transcript.