Frequently Asked Questions
Are tickets required? Do I need to register myself and my guests for Commencement Week/Weekend?
Baccalaureate
Generally, Baccalaureate is not a ticketed event and guests are seated first-come, first-served. This is subject to change once the speaker is announced in the spring. The service is live-streamed and guests may watch from the large screens on the Quad, Guerry Auditorium, or on their own devices.
Commencement
There are no tickets for Commencement and there is no limit on the number of guests who may attend. All guests will watch via live-stream, as only students are permitted to enter the chapel. We will set up approximately 2,500–3,000 chairs on the Quad, and Guerry Auditorium and McClurg Dining Hall will also be open and equipped with the live-stream. We anticipate having ample seating for all guests.
**Please note that large bags and backpacks are not permitted in All Saints' Chapel, Guerry Auditorium, or any other campus event spaces.
What if it rains?
The Commencement ceremony in All Saints' Chapel will take place rain or shine! If it rains, we have a number of indoor locations where you can watch the live-stream of the ceremony, but we ask that you plan accordingly.
What's the process for ordering lunch tickets from McClurg on Saturday and box lunch on Sunday?
If you would like to buy tickets for the lunch at McClurg following Baccalaureate, or the picnic box lunch following Commencement, we strongly recommend purchasing those in advance. The order form will be made available in early 2027.
Do I need to purchase lunch tickets for my student?
Yes, McClurg will close on the last day of exams. The meal plan ends with the academic year so we recommend purchasing lunch tickets for your family, including your student, for these two events.
Is there a charge to attend the All-Campus Celebration?
No, this event is free of charge for families of graduating seniors.
What is appropriate attire for the weekend?
Dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather. You’ll see everything from shorts to suits. Baccalaureate is essentially a church service, so many women choose the equivalent of a Sunday dress. We also recommend avoiding pointy heels, as you’ll be walking on grass.
What should I do if a member of my family has accessibility or mobility needs?
Please note that most events throughout the weekend will take place on central campus. Various roads will open and close at different times to allow for safe pedestrian traffic and to accommodate those with mobility limitations.
On Saturday and Sunday for Baccalaureate and Commencement services, guests needing special assistance may be dropped off on Georgia Avenue at the sidewalk between McGriff Alumni House and Guerry. Student Angels will be available to assist guests with mobility needs and will have LSVs available to transport those who are unable to walk on their own. After drop off, please plan to park along Georgia Avenue or in the duPont Library lot.
Where can I order my gown, class ring, and graduation announcements?
The gown your student will wear for graduation is the gown they have earned throughout their time at Sewanee. Once comped, all students will have earned their gown. If you need a gown, one can be purchased at the University Bookstore or can be borrowed from the gown library. Sewanee graduates do not wear caps.
Graduation announcements can be ordered through a link that will be available in January 2027. Each box of 10 announcements is $40 if your student picks them up on campus and $50 if you prefer that we mail them to you. You can order your class ring directly through Jostens using this link.
Will there by a photographer?
Professional photographers have been contracted to take two photos of each graduate receiving their diploma in the chapel. Information will be sent to you after the weekend with details on how to access these photos.
What should I make sure NOT to miss?
The Class of 2027 All-Campus Celebration on Spencer Quad, Saturday night is a must-do! We'll have a full dinner, drinks, fireworks, and live music. This is a great way to meet and mingle with your students' friends, their families, and members of the faculty and staff.
You'll also want to be present at the end of Commencement on Sunday—when the service is over, graduates will leave All Saints' and walk through a lineup of cheering faculty members. It's always meaningful to see faculty applauding the students they've watched grow and learn over four years. Viewing is best on the Quad near University Avenue, but make sure you leave room for the faculty to line the sidewalks. (Also, note that Commencement doesn't end immediately after diplomas are awarded! The program includes a charge to the graduates, the Vice-Chancellor's remarks, and the singing of Sewanee's Alma Mater.)
