Please review the information below so you know what to expect on the day of the ceremony.
What is Senior Honors Convocation? How is it different from Commencement?
Senior Honors Convocation is a special ceremony that recognizes undergraduate students who have received academic awards and honors from their departments or academic programs. This ceremony is separate from Commencement, which is the university’s formal graduation ceremony where degrees are conferred. Many students choose to participate in both events.
When and where is the ceremony?
The ceremony will take place on Sunday, April 26, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. in the John Lyman Center for the Performing Arts.
What time should I arrive?
Student award recipients should arrive between 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. to allow time for check-in before the ceremony begins.
Where do I check in?
Check-in will take place in the main-level rotunda of Engleman Hall.
What happens at check-in?
At check-in, you will receive instructions for participating in the ceremony and procession. You will also receive an award card indicating your award category.
What should I wear?
Academic regalia (cap and gown) is required to participate in the ceremony. Regalia must be purchased in advance from the SCSU Bookstore and will not be available on the day of the event. Additional information is available at the Oak Hall store.
Do I need a ticket?
Student award recipients do not need a ticket to attend the ceremony.
Do my guests need tickets?
Yes. All guests must have a ticket to attend the ceremony. When you submitted your RSVP, you were able to request up to five (5) guest tickets for family and friends.
How do I get my guest tickets?
Guest tickets must be picked up in person from the Provost’s Office, located in Engleman Hall, Room A210 on the second floor. Tickets may be picked up Monday through Thursday between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Ticket pickup dates are April 1 through April 15, 2026.
Can I request extra tickets? When will I know if I can get them?
After the registration deadline, any remaining tickets will be tallied. Students who requested extra tickets will be notified by email. Extra tickets are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, with pickup beginning on Monday, April 20, 2026.
Can someone else pick up my tickets for me?
Yes. If you are unable to pick up the tickets yourself, someone else may do so on your behalf. You must email provost@southernct.edu from your university email account authorizing that person, or the individual picking up the tickets must bring written permission from you.
What should the written permission include?
The written permission must include your student ID number and the following statement: “I, ___ (student name), give permission for ___ (person picking up the tickets) to pick up my guest tickets for the Senior Honors Convocation.”
Does the person picking up the tickets need identification?
Yes. The person picking up the tickets must present a valid photo ID, such as a school ID, driver’s license, state ID, or passport.
Where should students and guests park?
Students and guests may park in the Wintergreen Avenue Garage on Sunday, April 26, 2026, for the Senior Honors Convocation.
Is shuttle service available?
Yes. From 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., shuttle service will loop between the Wintergreen Avenue Garage shuttle stop and the Lyman Center entrance.
How will transportation work after the ceremony?
Shuttle service will also be available after the ceremony to transport guests back to campus parking locations.
How long is the ceremony?
The ceremony typically lasts approximately 90 minutes, depending on the number of awards presented.
Will I receive my certificate at the ceremony?
No. Certificates are not distributed during the Senior Honors Convocation. During the ceremony, you will receive a certificate holder with a placeholder. Official certificates must be picked up in person from the Provost’s Office beginning Monday, May 4, 2026.
Will there be photos?
Yes. All student award recipients will have the opportunity to take a complimentary commemorative photograph after the ceremony.
Who should I contact with questions or accommodation requests?
If you have questions or need disability-related accommodations, please contact the Office of Academic Affairs at (203) 392-5350.