Changes in store for UofSC commencement ceremonies
Posted on: August 10, 2016; Updated on: August 10, 2016
By Jeff Stensland, stenslan@mailbox.sc.edu, 803-777-3686
Commencement is one of the most cherished occasions at the University of South Carolina. It represents the culmination of years of hard work and the beginning of a new chapter in every graduate’s life. At Carolina, more students than ever are participating in commencement ceremonies and joining the ranks of Gamecock alumni. But as class sizes grow, some adjustments to ceremonies are being made to ensure the core traditions that make commencement such a special day for families, friends and graduates are protected.
Beginning in December, each graduate will receive six (6) tickets for guests. Graduates are asked to please return any tickets from their allotment that will not be used so we may accommodate graduates who wish to invite more than six guests. This change is necessary in order to keep the ceremony at the Colonial Life Arena, where each graduate’s name is called as they cross the stage and shake hands with their respective dean and the university president.
Beginning in May, the College of Information and Communications will join the Saturday morning commencement ceremony instead of Friday afternoon. This change will help better balance the number of graduates participating in each ceremony.
Also in May, in lieu of an outside speaker, a new tradition will begin as USC President Harris Pastides will deliver his first full commencement address to graduates. Honorary degrees will still be conferred.
Additional details about how to get tickets will be sent in coming weeks. For more information about participating in commencement, visit the registrar's graduation website.
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