Information for Graduates Day Of

Here is all you need to know for what to expect on the day of our Commencement Celebration!

Parking Information
Parking is available at the main Coliseum lot for $8 per vehicle. You can access the lot using the entrance off of Coliseum Blvd or Parnell Ave. It is recommended to carpool if you can.

Entrance for Graduates
Please use the main Coliseum entrance. Proceed to Expo Center IV located behind the escalators. Graduating students will need to first check in at the tables on the right side of the Expo Center Lobby to receive their name card and directions on where to go. You will also receive your IU Fort Wayne pin to place on your robe.

Students will proceed down the ramp, where you will check in at the Alumni table and activate your MyIU account. From here you will mingle in your designated area until it is time to get you seated and in order for the processional.

Note, all guests of a graduate will proceed up one level to the main concourse area for general seating. Guests are not permitted in the graduate holding area.

Lining up for Processional
Each discipline will have designated rows for seating. Our coordinators will help get everyone in the proper seats and ready for line up. Your program marshall will also be there to help get you lined up and ready to walk into the arena.

Seating
Seating in the arena is assigned by the program. Follow all instructions given by IU staff to ensure you are seated in the proper area on the floor of the arena. 

Walking Across the Stage
Programs will be dismissed from their seats by IU Staff. You will line up along the side of the arena. Leave all your belongings at your seat EXCEPT for your name card. You will scan your name card at the AV table, then proceed up the stage ramp. Hand your card to the name reader at the podium, continue moving forward to receive your diploma cover. Pause briefly to have your picture taken, then proceed on and shake hands of your program and IU leadership. Continue down the exit ramp, stop at the banners to get your picture taken again, then follow instructions back to your seat.

After the Celebration
At the conclusion of the celebration, you will exit back into the hallway and down the ramp to the Expo Center 4 area. From here you may exit to the main floor lobby where you will meet your guests. Be sure to make any dinner reservations or plans for 6:00 PM or later to ensure you have time to leave and travel to your next engagement. Congratulations! We look forward to celebrating with you!