Illinois State University’s winter commencement will be held in two ceremonies on Saturday, December 17, in CEFCU Arena. These ceremonies mark the return to the traditional ceremonial format including student processional, speeches from University officials, and students receiving their diploma cover as they cross the commencement stage when their name is read.
The first ceremony at 9 a.m. will include graduates from the College of Arts and Sciences, College of Education, and Mennonite College of Nursing. The second ceremony at 1 p.m. will include graduates from the College of Applied Science and Technology, College of Business, and the Wonsook Kim College of Fine Arts.
Illinois State will award approximately 1,015 baccalaureate degrees and 225 graduate degrees. There are 850 students (undergraduate and graduate) scheduled to participate in the winter ceremonies.
Family, friends, and supporters unable to attend winter commencement in person will still be able to watch the morning and afternoon ceremonies live on their computer or mobile device.
New this semester, graduates have the opportunity to take pictures with family and friends at the Commencement Photo Station in the Bone Student Center Brown Ballroom. There will be a variety of commencement and Illinois State-themed photo backdrops available for graduates to use to capture some Redbird memories before they leave campus. No appointment is needed. Graduates can visit the Commencement Photo station on Friday, December 16 from noon to 7 p.m. and Saturday, December 17 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
