Information for Graduating Seniors

Graduates participating in Commencement are encouraged to consult the information found here.

Please note that graduating seniors must attend certain events in preparation for Commencement. Please consult the events schedule for more information. 

Attire for Commencement

Commencement is a special occasion designed to honor and recognize the hard work and accomplishments of students and faculty members in the presence of family, friends, and the Davidson College community. Attire for graduates should be respectful of the ceremony's importance.

Per tradition at Davidson College, graduates wear a plain black cap and gown. This can be picked up at the Senior Salute event. The tassel on the cap begins on the right and caps should be parallel to the ground. Beneath the cap and gown, graduates should wear cool, comfortable dress clothes with practical dress shoes. Personal adornments or props are not in keeping with the spirit of the ceremony; however, graduates may wear cords and stoles from recognized Davidson College student organizations. If graduates have questions, please email registrar@davidson.edu well in advance of the Commencement ceremony.

Prohibited Items

In addition to items regularly prohibited on campus (e.g., weapons), balloons, posters/signs, noisemakers, bullhorns and any other sound amplifying devices are prohibited at Commencement.

Reading Graduates' Names

Commencement is an occasion to celebrate every graduate with enthusiasm and joy. Whether your path through Davidson was smooth, rocky, or something in between, Commencement is a moment to recognize and applaud your success. With that in mind, we will read every name (so don’t forget to record yours) as well as departmental honors from the stage. Latin and departmental honors will be printed in the program.

The name used for Commencement, including the diploma, defaults to a student’s legal name (first, middle, last). This is because there are cases, such as working outside of the United States, that require the diploma to match a person’s legal name. Please contact the Registrar at andewberry@davidson.edu if you would like to request that a non-legal name be used for Commencement and the diploma.