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Commencement Planning

New year...new opportunities. Whether it's graduate school, employment, service or something else, this year will bring a new beginning to your student.

But first, it's time to celebrate. Commencement is the capstone of your student's BW experience. It's a chance to express pride in his or her achievements and applaud the conferring of your student's college degree.

As you plan for this big day, questions may arise. To assist you, we've compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions about Commencement.

When is Commencement?

There are two Commencements - one in May at the completion of the spring semester and one in December after the completion of the fall semester.

A full schedule of Commencement events, driving directions and listing of hotel/motel accommodations are available online. Eligible graduating seniors are required to complete an application for graduation, which is available through the Office of Registration and Records' MyBW page. They will receive detailed information about Commencement approximately two months before the event.

Where is Commencement held?

Commencement will be held at Ursprung Gymnasium in the Lou Higgins Center, 136 E. Bagley Rd.

Is Commencement broadcast?

The ceremony is webcast live and archived after the ceremony. The link is available 15 minutes prior to the ceremony.

How is photography handled?

GradImages is a professional company that takes several photos of each graduate. These photos are available for purchase online within days of the ceremony.

What about caps, gowns, tassels and personalized announcements?

These are available for purchase via the BW Bookstore.

When will graduates receive their diplomas?

Diploma cases will be presented at Commencement. Diplomas will be mailed to graduates as soon as final grades are verified. All financial obligations to BW and BW organizations must be met before official documents (diploma, official academic transcripts) will be released. Contact the Bursar's Office at 440-826-2215 if you are experiencing difficulty in meeting these obligations.