Graduate Commencement Information

Prior to Ceremony

In order to attend, you must complete the invite/RSVP form available beginning in mid-February.

Order Cap and Gown

Student regalia sets are required for participants. Caps & gowns are only provided to those students attending the Commencement Ceremony. There is no cost for your cap and gown.
Due to continued shipping delays being experienced, the Bookstore has placed a bulk order for caps & gowns.
If you are to receive Honor Cords, please check with your department or faculty advisor as they may be provided.

Invite Family and Friends

You may invite up to 10 guests to the ceremony. A ticket is required for seating at PPL Center for everyone ages 2 and older. Graduates do not need tickets for themselves.
Although tickets are required to enter PPL Center, seating is unassigned and is on a first-come, first-served basis. Guests should refrain from saving seats and please respect signage for reserved and accessible seating areas.
Families and guests may enter through any entrance starting 1 hour prior to the event.
Make lunch or dinner plans to celebrate your achievement. City Center and Downtown Allentown retailers and restaurants are offering discounts for graduates and their families. More information is available here.

ADA Accommodations

If you or your guests need ADA accommodations, please contact the Office of Student Life at geden@ngskmc-eis.net.
Seating: Accessible seating is available on all seating levels of PPL Center. A limited number of accessible seating tickets can be requested on the ticket website for individuals in wheelchairs. Limited mobility seats will not have tickets and will be on a first-come, first-served basis.
Sign Language Interpreter: A sign language interpreter is hired for the duration of the Commencement Ceremony.

Commencement Day
Parking

Parking is available in multiple locations for PPL Center events through the Allentown Parking Authority. Most street parking meters accept payment by credit card or coins. Garage parking requires payment by cash or credit card. PPL Directions and Parking Information

Student Check In

Graduates should plan to arrive at the Air Products Gate starting at 5:00 p.m. You must arrive no later than 5:45 p.m. Click here to view the arena map.
You will receive a name card that you will hold onto during the ceremony to have your name called.
DO NOT BRING COATS, PURSES OR OTHER VALUABLES. There is not a place to store your items at PPL Center. View PPL Center’s Bag & Purse Policy.
We also ask that all cell phones are turned off or silenced during the ceremony unless there is an emergency
Please do not wear shoes that may make walking stairs difficult.

Security

All attendees will pass through metal detection/wanding prior to entering. View PPL Center’s Bag & Purse Policy.

Photographer

Professional photography services will be available before and during the ceremony. You will have your picture taken as you exit the stage.
Students are under no obligation to purchase the photo proof that will be sent to them.
The photographs will be available on GradImages. Allow 7-10 business days to view YOUR images.
Informal photos will be available on LCCC’s social media.

Commencement Program and Other Mementos

During the Ceremony

Students should pay close attention for instructions during the entire ceremony.
Students will be asked during the ceremony to walk on stage to receive their diploma cover.
Students need to remain seated during the ceremony unless directed by a ceremony volunteer.
ALL CANDIDATES ARE EXPECTED TO REMAIN AND PARTICIPATE IN THE ENTIRE CEREMONY.

After the Ceremony

Guests and graduates are not permitted to remain inside PPL Center after the Commencement Ceremony concludes. Graduates will need to immediately exit. Guests must meet their graduate at one of the entrances or other pre-determined meeting spot.