Frequently Asked Questions

QUESTION: I have lost my cap/gown/tassel/academic emblem.
ANSWER: Contact the SU Bookstore. On the day of commencement, Bookstore personnel will be in the Civic Center to assist with such issues.

QUESTION: How is the senior commencement speaker selected?
ANSWER:  
Seniors are eligible to apply if they:

-          will graduate May 2009 with University Honors (see Undergraduate Catalog 2008-2010, “Graduation with Honors,” p. 60);

-          have a GPA of 3.5 or above (including Winter 2009, if attended);

-         have completed or will complete by the end of the Spring Semester at least 56 semester hours at SU, of which at least 30 semester hours are in 300- or 400-level courses with grades of A,B, or C;

-          are receiving an undergraduate degree.

 Members of the Commencement Committee review and elect a commencement speaker based on speech submissions.

QUESTION: What time do we have to be at the Civic Center?
ANSWER: Graduates should report no later than 9 a.m. for the 10 a.m. ceremony or 1 p.m. for the 2 p.m. ceremony. Be prepared to remain in the Civic Center once you enter. Do not bring personal belongings. Airhorns, balloons and banners are not permitted.

QUESTION: Do children need a ticket?
ANSWER: If the child is small enough to sit on a parent’s lap, they will not be required to present a ticket. If the child needs his or her own seat, they should have a ticket.

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QUESTION: When will the ceremony finish?
ANSWER: Most graduation ceremonies last about two hours.

QUESTION: Where is the Civic Center?
ANSWER: The Civic Center is located at 500 Glen Avenue, Salisbury, MD 21804.

QUESTION: How can I order pictures or the DVD?
ANSWER: Chappell Studios (www.chappell.com) will send ordering info to each graduate at their home address soon after graduation with a proof and instructions on ordering. Chappell takes photos of the graduates as they are receiving their diploma. DVDs are ordered online through the SU Bookstore for $25 plus tax and $6.95 shipping at www.bookstore.salisbury.edu.
 

QUESTION: I applied for graduation but I don’t know if I am eligible or have met all of the requirements. OR How do I know if I will be graduating with honors?
ANSWER: Information about eligibility to graduate or honors is obtained from the Registrar’s office at registrar@salisbury.edu

QUESTION: I am not on campus because of an internship or study abroad. How can I take care of my cap/gown/ticket pickup (or ordering)?
ANSWER: Contact the SU Bookstore: Debbie Johnson at dyjohnson@salisbury.edu or 410-543-6086 to make special arrangements.

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QUESTION: What about extra tickets?
ANSWER: Many students will not use all of the tickets they are issued. Some decide to sell extra tickets and the Campus Digest is a good place to check for tickets for sale and also to place an ad to let others know you are looking for extra tickets. Also, be sure to tell your classmates/roommates/friends that you’re looking for extras.

QUESTION: As a guest, can I obtain a ticket directly?
ANSWER: No, tickets are issued to graduating students only. It is up to each student to invite his or her guests.

QUESTION: What is the dress code for guests?
ANSWER: Dressy but not formal is suggested. However, a wide range of attire can be seen at most ceremonies.

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QUESTION: Can I videotape the ceremony?
ANSWER: Guests may videotape or photograph the ceremony from their seats only. A professional DVD, filmed from the stage and showing each graduate receiving his or her diploma, is available for ordering through the SU Bookstore at www.bookstore.salisbury.edu for $25 plus tax and $6.95 shipping.

QUESTION: How is the date for commencement selected?
ANSWER: The Commencement ceremony is on the day immediately following the last day of final exams with some other considerations including but not limited to holidays and venue availability.

QUESTION: I don’t see my question here.
ANSWER: Email commencement@salisbury.edu or phone 410-543-6232.

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