Commencement Ceremony for Monday, May 19 Moved Indoors

In light of tomorrow’s forecast, we are moving the Commencement ceremony indoors to the north side of the Fieldhouse within the Bear Recreation and Athletic Center.

Campus & Community
May 18, 2025

Dear Graduates, Faculty, Staff, and Guests - 

In light of tomorrow’s forecast, we are moving the Commencement ceremony indoors to the north side of the Fieldhouse within the Bear Recreation and Athletic Center. The National Weather Service is predicting the potential for thunderstorms, rain, and strong wind gusts (over 35 mph). 

While the location for the ceremony and picnic has changed, the spirit of celebration remains unchanged, and we look forward to honoring the accomplishments of the Class of 2025!

Doors to the Fieldhouse will open by 8:30 a.m., and seating will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. For those who cannot attend in person, the ceremony will be livestreamed at www.grinnell.edu/livestream. 

Line-up Information: 

  • Student line-up in Darby Gym at 9:30 a.m. 

  • Faculty line-up will take place in the hall in the lower level leading to the Natatorium at 9:30 a.m. 

  • Staff may proceed to the Athletic Fieldhouse at 9:30 a.m., where reserved seating will be available in the bleachers. A staff member will be on site to assist as needed. 

Indoor Picnic:

Following the Commencement ceremony, graduates and their guests are invited to join an indoor picnic lunch. The food will be served in the Auxiliary Gym, and seating and water will be available in Darby Gym.  

Diploma Pickup: 

Information about official diploma pick-up for tomorrow will be shared with students in the morning (Mon., May 19). Additionally, official diplomas will be available for pick up between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Tues., May 20, through Fri., May 23 at the John Chrystal Center (JCC).  

Handicap Accessible Parking:

A reserved handicap parking lot will be located in Lot L, north of Rathje Residence Hall.

If you have any questions about Commencement, please do not hesitate to reach out to the Office of Event Coordination & Scheduling at 641-269-3179 or email ferrissj@grinnell.edu.

Thank you for your understanding and flexibility. We look forward to celebrating together!  

Thank you,  

Jenny Ferriss
Coordinator of Commencement and Conferences 


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