Family and Guest Information

We are so glad you are considering joining us for commencement. Commencement is a time of celebration, joy, and reflection as we honor our graduates and their achievements. We invite all guests to join in this spirit of positivity and respect. To ensure a meaningful experience for everyone, those who choose not to participate in a positive manner may be asked to leave. Thank you for celebrating this special day with us!

Baccalaureate

When and where is Baccalaureate?

Baccalaureate: Graduate Celebration & Sending will be held in Lehman Auditorium at 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 3, 2025. This event is for all 2025 class graduates.

What is Baccalaureate? Is it required?

Baccalaureate is a worship service honoring the graduating class and includes hymns, musical selections and the Baccalaureate message. The service will last approximately one hour, and is open to any guests that would like to attend and are not required.

Will there be a live stream of Baccalaureate?

A live video feed of the Baccalaureate service will be available on EMU's Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/EasternMennonite/
Commencement

When and where is Commencement?

Commencement will be held Sunday, May 4, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. on the front lawn of campus.

Will there be a live stream of Commencement?

A live video feed of the Commencement ceremony will be available on EMU's Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/EasternMennonite/

How long will Commencement last?

Commencement is approximately two hours.

Is there reserved seating?

There is reserved seating available for guests needing special accommodations. Complete this form by May 1 if you will need accommodations.

Is there a limit on how many guests are allowed to attend?

There is no limit on the number of guests you would like to invite and no tickets will be given.

What are the seating details?

Seating will be on a first come, first served basis. The seating area opens at 11:00 a.m. on Sunday. Family members and guests are welcome to bring lawn chairs for seating outside the tent as well.

Is there handicapped-accessible seating?

Yes, handicapped accessible seating will be available. Guests may notify a parking attendant if assistance is needed in getting from the parking area to the commencement seating.

Will there be remote viewing options?

A remote viewing location for the Commencement ceremony will be available for guests in the Suter Science Center Room 106. Please see the Campus Map for this location.
What if the weather is bad?

Commencement will be held under a tent on the front lawn, rain or shine.
Where do I park?

Please see the Campus Map for parking information. The south portion of the University Commons parking lot will be reserved for handicapped and mobility-restricted parking.
Photography

Classic Photography and Imaging will provide high quality, professional photographs of each graduate during the Commencement ceremony. Individual candid photos will be taken of each graduate receiving their diploma from President Susan Schultz Huxman during the Commencement ceremony, as well as a photo of each graduate as they exit the stage. This photography service is provided for those who are interested, and the costs for these services are detailed by Classic Photography and Imaging. Following Commencement, photos may be viewed and ordered online at www.classic-photo.com. If you have specific questions regarding the photos taken by Classic Photography and Imaging, please contact them directly.

Dining Hall Hours

SATURDAY:

Continental breakfast: 8:15 – 9 a.m.
Lunch: 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Dinner: 5:00 - 6:00 p.m.

SUNDAY:

Continental breakfast: 8:15 – 9 a.m.
Lunch: 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Reserved Hotel Rooms

We have obtained blocks of rooms for Friday, May 2 and/or Saturday, May 3 at the following hotels for EMU guests. Last Day to Book: See each location.