The student commencement speaker is an important tradition at UIS. All graduating students are invited to audition for this honor and responsibility. Speeches for the audition should be no longer than five minutes and should be presented in their entirety. Speeches will be evaluated by a faculty committee for clarity of expression, delivery, timing, appropriateness, and relevance of the topic as representative of the graduating class.
Access a livestream of each ceremony at uis.edu/uislive. The livestream will be accessible on personal devices.
Overflow seating with livestreaming will be available in the lower level of the Bank of Springfield Center for those without a ticket. Signs will be in place noting the designated location for overflow seating.
Tickets will be required for admission into each ceremony. A notice will be sent to students when tickets are available. Students may print or email tickets to their guests. Tickets will be general admission. Once accessible seating is assigned to those guests, their general admission tickets will be placed back in the pool for reassignment.
Graduates or Guests with an assistance/accommodation request should contact the Office of Records and Registration (217-206-7730 or commencement@uis.edu).
At commencement, diploma covers are presented to students by the Chancellor. Official diplomas are 8.5×11 inches and are sent by first-class mail to each student’s diploma address approximately nine weeks after your conferral date. Check your address by logging into Student Self-Service to ensure your correct address is on file.
Upon completion of the online Intent to Participate form, graduates will receive a link to purchase their regalia and other items (such as invitations) through Herff Jones.
Academic regalia is required, including a black cap and gown. It is suggested that you wear lightweight clothing and dark shoes under your cap and gown. Items such as purses should not be brought.
The ceremony will last approximately 90 minutes to two hours.
A list of academic programs by ceremony and college is listed on the "Graduates" page of the commencement website.