To help us honor the Class of 2013 and make the Commencement ceremony a memorable occasion for all of our guests, here are a few tips for your comfort, convenience and safety.

During the ceremony

• Remember to silence your cell phones and all other electronic devices.
• Refrain from smoking in and around our Commencement tent.
• Keep all aisles open and be courteous to guests requiring the spaces reserved for wheelchairs. This is especially important in the event of an emergency, in which case Public Safety would direct you on how to safely evacuate the tent.
• Leave strollers in the designated stroller drop-off area outside the tent. You should certainly bring with you any children riding in those strollers.
• Please do not block anyone’s view with balloons, flowers or other expressions of admiration for your graduate.
• Take advantage of the photo op area at the left of the stage. It’s the ideal place to snap that special shot of your graduate receiving his or her diploma without interrupting the ceremony. When you finish taking photos, please return promptly to your seat.
• Remain seated and keep the center aisle clear as our graduates will use it to process in and recess out at the close of the ceremony.
  

NEW THIS YEAR: Indoor seating

There will be a live broadcast of the Commencement ceremony in D Building, with indoor seating to view the graduation. This may be a good option for elderly guests and guests with mobility issues, for whom walking to the ceremony tent may be extra challenging.

Weather concerns

Prior to and during commencement, members of CCBC Public Safety and Plant Operations will be evaluating weather conditions that might affect the event. Light rain or drizzle will not be a factor, but high winds or lightning may cause changes to the ceremony schedule.

In the event severe weather or other circumstances require a tent evacuation, the ceremony emcee will ask that people move promptly to their cars, or to buildings B, D or E. Public Safety officers on duty will assist in guiding guests to those locations. Cars are the preferred destination, as building capacities are limited.

The decision to continue the event will be made as soon as conditions allow. Public Safety and event staff will announce updated information by moving through the buildings and parking lots.

Rest rooms

Rest room facilities (really nice ones) are located in the area behind the Commencement tent. Follow the path around the back of the the tent and look for signs directing you to the rest room area.

For purchase

Bottled water and fresh flowers will be available for purchase in the CCBC Athletics tent, located behind the Commencement tent. All proceeds benefit CCBC Athletics.

The CCBC Bookstore Commencement Shop, also located inside the tent, is the place to go for last-minute graduation gifts and mementos of the day, as well as candy and snack items.