Commencement 2023 Update

April 13, 2023

Dear Class of 2023,

Commencement is one of our university’s most cherished and unique traditions. In just five weeks, we look forward to celebrating your achievements together with families and friends. To prepare, please read the following message in its entirety.

Unified Commencement – May 20, 2023 – Yulman Stadium

The Unified Commencement Ceremony will take place on Saturday, May 20 at 6:30 p.m. in Yulman Stadium. At this special milestone ceremony – featuring an academic procession, keynote speaker, live jazz and a fireworks display – President Michael Fitts will officially confer degrees upon all Tulane University degree candidates (undergraduates, graduates and professionals).

Inclement Weather Planning

Unified Commencement will proceed rain or shine, unless severe weather (lightning, tornadoes, flooding, etc.) poses a significant threat to the safety of graduates and attendees. In the event of severe weather, the University will communicate to graduates and guests one of two scenarios:

  • Rain Delay: In the event of a rapidly moving weather event, the start time of the Unified Commencement ceremony could be delayed.
     
  • Postponement: In the event that severe weather conditions are expected to persist throughout the evening, the Unified Commencement ceremony would be postponed until Sunday, May 21 at 9 a.m. in Yulman Stadium. Postponement would only occur in extreme circumstances.

The university will update students and guests on any changes due to severe weather via:

  • Commencement website
  • Text message from the Office of Emergency Preparedness and Response. Please sign up for these updates by texting tugrad to 888777.
  • Social Media:
    Instagram- @tulaneu
    Twitter- @Tulane

 
School Ceremonies

In addition to the Unified Commencement ceremony, graduates are invited to the ceremony of the school awarding their degree. At these ceremonies, graduates’ names are called to cross the stage individually. For a full listing of these ceremonies and events, visit commencement.tulane.edu/schedule.

Regalia

Students must wear regalia to participate in school ceremonies and the Unified Commencement. Regalia must be ordered online by April 16. Online orders will ship directly to graduates in May. Regalia can also be purchased in person at the Tulane Bookstore. Orders after the April 16 deadline must be in-person at the Tulane Bookstore.

Accommodations

We strive to host inclusive, accessible events that enable all individuals, including those with disabilities, to engage fully. Guest with disabilities or those in need of accommodation please make a request using the following form.

Share your photos for the big screen!

We invite you to share the highlights of your Tulane career with your family and friends in a photo slideshow that will play before the Unified Commencement ceremony begins. Typical photos include graduates with classmates, performing public service, enjoying New Orleans, Study Abroad experiences and more.

Share your photos!
 

If you have any additional questions, please visit the Commencement website or email the planning team at tugrad@tulane.edu

 

Congratulations!

The 2023 Commencement Planning Team