Graduation FAQs

Attention faculty and administrators! We look forward to seeing you at the commencement ceremony and sharing this special occasion with you. The following information is designed to answer questions you might have about the ceremony:

When and where is the commencement ceremony?

Commencement will be held on Friday, May 19, 2023 at 2:30 p.m. at the NOW Center Arena located at 5333 Prairie Stone Pkwy, Hoffman Estates, IL 60192.

Who is the guest speaker at the ceremony?

The guest speaker for the Commencement ceremony is Timothy L. Killeen. President Killeen is the 20^th president of the University of Illinois System, which includes universities in Urbana-Champaign, Chicago, and Springfield.

https://www.uillinois.edu/president/biography

What time should I arrive at the ceremony and where should I park?

Please arrive no later than 1:30 p.m. and enter at Door 11 at the NOW Arena. Procession will begin promptly at 2:30 p.m. Parking is available in the lots that are accessible off Prairie Stone Pkwy, Hoffman Blvd, and Pratum Ave (see detailed map). Parking is available in lot A-F and once inside, Prairie Stone signage and parking attendants will direct you to the closest lot.

When and where will I pick up my cap and gown?

Faculty and Administrators can pick up their pre-ordered caps and gowns from the bookstore beginning at noon on Monday, May 8. They should be picked up no later than end of the day on Wednesday May 17th. After that date, caps/gowns will be delivered to the NOW Arena and be placed in the “Catering Room” where you will line up for the procession. All gowns will be pressed and can be returned to the “Catering Room” after the ceremony. Please contact HarperStore at extension 6275 if you have any questions.

How will faculty and administrators line-up for the ceremony?

You will line-up in the same area that you pick up your gown. Faculty and administrators will line-up in one line. Students will process first from the NOW Arena hallway, then faculty and administrators, followed by the platform party which includes the President, Board of Trustees, guest speaker, the Executive Cabinet, and the President of the Faculty Senate. Faculty members from the Health Careers division will assist with the faculty line-up process

Where will I return my cap and gown?

Return your cap and gown to the line-up room directly after the ceremony. Faculty may exit the NOW Arena through Door #4

What should I do with any valuables?

There will be no designated area at the ceremony where you may leave your valuables. Please have your cell phone or any other electronic devices set to vibrate.

How long is the ceremony?

The ceremony will last approximately one and a half hours.

Where can I get additional information about Security, Parking, Entry, and Prohibited Items at the NOW Arena?

Go to https://nowarena.com/graduation-faq

Who should I contact if I have additional questions?

Contact Sue Skora at sskora@harpercollege.edu

Will my bags be checked or will there be a security screening?

Prior to entering the building, graduates and faculty will pass through metal detectors. We ask that you keep gowns unzipped during this security screening.

Screening will also be enhanced at the Main Entrance for guests. We recommend that guests leave any unnecessary bags at home. This additional security should not substantially effect or delay accessing the Arena.