Please note that students may wear their gowns tonight, no caps. Please begin lining up in the back of the Field House at 6:30 p.m. The ceremony will start at 7 p.m. Families are welcome to attend and celebrate with your student!
What is a Baccalaureate?
In addition to the traditional commencement ceremony with its cap and gown and congratulatory handshakes, valedictorian speech (or speeches) and recognition of outstanding achievements, most high schools, colleges, and universities also have baccalaureate ceremonies. Formally defined as a religious service to honor the graduating class, in many institutions of higher education the baccalaureate has evolved into a quieter, more reflective event that focuses on students' personal growth and achievement.
Other special events during the baccalaureate often include performances by student choirs, vocalists, and musicians, which allows for more introspection for both the graduates and the attendees.
What should I wear?
Students should dress in appropriate attire under their academic regalia. We suggest that graduating men wear a dress slacks, a button-up shirt and tie; graduating women may wear either dress slacks and a blouse or a day dress. Neither hoods nor mortarboards are worn at Baccalaureate. No flip flops.