Commencement Exercises | Christopher Newport University

We try to have Commencement outdoors, even when it's raining (bring rain gear), and no tickets are required for an outdoor Commencement. In the event of intolerable weather, such as thunder and lightning, the Commencement Exercises will be held in The Freeman Center Field House. Each degree candidate will receive a limited number of guest tickets for the indoor Commencement.
Because of the limited seating capacity of The Freeman Center and the need to adhere to safety regulations for indoor assemblies, ticketing will be strictly enforced.

At rehearsal, degree candidates participating in Commencement will receive a limited number of rain tickets for their guests. It is the responsibility of the degree candidate to ensure that these tickets are in the possession of those who will be using them on the morning of Commencement.
If the degree candidate is unable to be present for rehearsal and receive rain tickets, they must submit a request to amie.kellar@cnu.edu. Their name will then be placed on a “Rain Ticket Pick-Up List” and they will be able to pick up tickets on Sunday, May 18 beginning at 10 a.m. in the Freeman Center lobby. The degree candidate must present a valid student I.D. to receive their tickets.
Guests must have a rain ticket to attend Commencement exercises in The Freeman Center.
Doors to The Freeman Center will open at 10 a.m.
Families and guests should be seated by 11:45 a.m.
The processional will begin at 12 noon.
Limited special needs seating is available. This seating is reserved for elderly and physically challenged guests who are unable to climb steps or who need wheelchair accessibility. Because seating in this area is limited, only one individual may sit with the guest who has special needs. Be sure to arrive early for special seating.
Degrees are conferred at the ceremony; diplomas are picked up after the ceremony in David Student Union Ballroom.