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When and where is the Commencement Ceremony?

May 3, 2026, 2:00 pm EDT
Van Andel Arena
130 Fulton Street West
Grand Rapids, MI  49503

Who is eligible to participate in the Commencement Ceremony?

Students who have met ALL of the following requirements are eligible to participate in the 2026 Commencement Ceremony:

• Students who are completing their requirements during the Fall 2025, Winter 2026 or Spring/Summer 2026 semester.
• Students completing one of the following: associate degree, bachelor’s degree, post-associate certificate, post-baccalaureate certificate, graduate or postgraduate certificate or master’s degree.  
• Students who have submitted their graduation application.
• Students who have signed up to participate in the commencement ceremony by April 24, 2026.
• Students who have purchased their cap and gown package or stole by April 24, 2026.

How long does the ceremony usually last?

Approximately 2 - 2 ½ hours

Do I need tickets?

Tickets are not necessary for graduates or their guests.

Is the venue handicap accessible?

The Van Andel Arena is a public venue and is completely barrier-free.

What time should I arrive at the arena?

Graduates must arrive by 1:30 pm. Guests should arrive prior to 2:00 pm.

What happens if a student shows up late for the Commencement Ceremony?

If they arrive after 1:45 pm, they may not be able to participate in the Commencement Ceremony.

Will there be a photographer at the Ceremony to take my student's picture?

Yes, Davenport has partnered with Pro Pics to take professional portraits of all graduates during the ceremony. Photos will be available for purchase after the ceremony. To receive photo proofs, graduates should register and upload a selfie at . 

If you have any questions regarding photos, contact Pro Pics at support@propicsusa.com. 

Who will wear gold honor cords with their gowns?

Honor cords are worn by Associate Degree and Bachelor Degree candidates who have earned highest honor as of the end of the last semester/session. 

Will academic honors be announced during the Commencement Ceremony?

Associate Degree and Bachelor Degree candidates who have earned one of the honors listed below as of the end of the last semester/session will have the honor announced as they walk across the stage.

With Highest Honor 3.90 to 4.0
With High Honor 3.70 to 3.89
With Honor 3.50 to 3.69

Master degree candidates who have earned a 4.0 GPA will graduate "With Distinction" and wear a ´óÏó´«Ã½ Medallion.

How will students be seated?

Candidates will be seated by college, then by level – graduate-level first.

The colleges are:

College of Health Professions
College of Arts and Science
College of Urban Education
College of Technology
Donald W. Maine College of Business

How do students know what college their degree is from?

They should contact their Advisor for clarification.

What is the proper attire for candidates participating in the Commencement Ceremony?

Business Attire

Will students receive their diploma at the Commencement Ceremony?

Diplomas are mailed to graduates approximately 6-8 weeks after the end of the semester in which they finish their program.

What is the Commencement Program?

The Commencement Program is produced in April and given out to all graduation candidates, family and friends who attend the Commencement ceremony. It is a historical document for the school year and a keepsake for each graduate. It includes, but is not limited to, the following:

A message from the President
The program for the ceremony
Commencement and student speaker information
Academic Regalia Information
Listing of all names, degree and honor* information for current year graduates

*The honor designation is based on the GPA as of the last completed semester/session

How can students ensure their name is included in the year’s Commencement Program?

Graduates must submit their graduation application by the due date in early February.