Commencement events are being carefully planned in order to honor your achievements. Please be sure to check your email, as well as the Commencement website, for important information and reminders in the months leading up to Commencement.
Regalia Ordering
Graduates will order caps and gowns via the Jostens website. The deadline for ordering regalia is February 8, 2024. Graduates will pick up their regalia during the Bridgewater College Grad Fair in March. Additional details regarding the Grad Fair will be forthcoming.
Commencement Rehearsal
Commencement Rehearsal will be held on Thursday, May 2 from 2-4 p.m. under the tent on the Campus Mall. In the case of inclement weather, an alternative location will be announced. During rehearsal, graduates will be given additional information regarding the Baccalaureate and Commencement events, have a cap and gown demonstration, will review forming the processional and receive instructions for the Commencement service. Graduates will receive their reserved seating tickets following the conclusion of rehearsal.
Rehearsal is mandatory – if you cannot attend, you will need to email commencement@bridgewater.edu.
Frequently Asked Questions
Baccalaureate
When and where is Baccalaureate?
Baccalaureate will be held at 6 p.m. on Friday, May 3, 2024 in Cole Hall.
What is Baccalaureate? Is it required?
Baccalaureate is a worship service honoring the graduating class. The service will last approximately one hour and includes multiple hymns, musical selections from the choir and the Baccalaureate message. Baccalaureate is open to any guests that would like to attend and is not required
Will there be a live stream of Baccalaureate?
No, there will not be a live stream of Baccalaureate.
How should we dress for Baccalaureate?
Worship attire is recommended. Graduates will be wearing their caps and gowns.
Commencement
When and where is Commencement?
Commencement will be held Saturday, May 4, 2024 at 10 a.m. on the Campus Mall.
Will there be a live stream of Commencement?
Yes, there will be a live stream of Commencement. The link to the live stream is now available; however, the live stream will not start until shortly before Commencement Exercises beginning at 9 a.m. on May 4, 2024.
How long will Commencement last?
Commencement is approximately two hours.
Is there reserved seating?
Yes, there is a reserved seating section. Graduates will be given four reserved seating tickets for their guests. For more information on seating, please see the “Tickets” section on the Commencement page.
Caps, Gowns, and Other
When do graduates get their caps and gowns?
Graduates will order their regalia via the Jostens website, to be picked up during the Grad Fair in March. The deadline to order regalia is February 8, 2024. Graduates will receive emailed instructions regarding how to order their regalia.
When and how do graduates get their announcements?
Graduates will be able to order announcements directly from Jostens during the Grad Fair in March. Graduates can also order announcements and other items from the Jostens website at any time.
When do graduates receive their diploma?
Diplomas will be given to graduates as they cross the stage during the Commencement exercises.
Weather
Commencement
Commencement will be held under a tent on the Campus Mall, rain or shine. In the event of severe weather, guests will be directed to safe locations for viewing.
Parking
To see parking availability for all of Bridgewater Campus, please see the Bridgewater College Campus Map. Additionally, handicapped parking will be available along East College Street and in the Carter Center parking lot for those with handicapped tags or placards. Bridgewater College Campus Police will be along East College Street to assist with handicapped parking. Golf carts will be available along East College Street and at the Carter Center parking lot for any guests who need assistance getting from parking to seating on the Campus Mall.
Commencement Guest Services
- Cristy’s Floral Designs will be located on the Rebecca Quad for any guests who would like to purchase a bouquet of flowers. The cost of bouquets will be announced in the coming months. Cash, credit and check will be accepted.
- Smitty’s Café is located inside the Forrer Learning Commons and will be open to guests from 8 a.m. to noon. Starbucks, as well as limited food and drinks, will be available at Smitty’s.
- The Bridgewater College Campus Store will be open from 9 a.m. to noon.
