With just under a month until Fordham’s 179th Commencement, we hope you’re as excited as we are to celebrate the Class of 2024.
Here’s some information and resources to make sure you’re ready for the big day.
Where and when is the main University Commencement Ceremony?
The main University Commencement Ceremony is on Saturday, May 18, at 10 a.m. on the Rose Hill Campus. At this ceremony, all degrees are officially conferred by the president and students are recognized as a group by their dean.
Do I need a ticket to attend the ceremony?
Tickets are not required for entrance to the Rose Hill campus for the University Commencement ceremony on Edwards Parade. Most school diploma ceremonies take place outside and also do not require tickets.
However, tickets are required in the event of severe weather, should the ceremonies move indoors. In the case of severe weather, there is a two-ticket limit per graduate.
Will there be a separate diploma ceremony for my college or school?
Yes! After the University Commencement Ceremony, there will be individual diploma ceremonies for graduates of each of Fordham’s schools and colleges. Some will be on the same day as the main ceremony, while others will not. Visit our commencement website for more information on diploma ceremonies and other commencement-related events.
Do I need to line up somewhere specific before processing in the University Commencement ceremony?
Yes! Signs will be posted that day to assist you in finding the exact location of your college or school’s lineup spot.
How should I get to campus for the main commencement ceremony?
The University Commencement brings more than 20,000 people to the Rose Hill campus, which makes parking a challenge. We strongly encourage the use of public transportation to Rose Hill on May 18. Visit our commencement website for more travel information, including a list of local hotels.
What can I bring to the ceremony?
Backpacks and other large containers will not be permitted on campus and should be left at home. All bags are subject to screening upon entry to Fordham’s campus. Alcoholic beverages, including champagne, are not permitted at the University Commencement or diploma ceremonies.
Where/when can I pick up my cap and gown?
Pickup locations and times differ depending on your school. Find the list.
Who is the commencement speaker?
Joseph Patrick Kennedy III, the U.S. Special Envoy to Northern Ireland for Economic Affairs, former congressman, and a career public servant, will address graduates at the University Commencement ceremony on May 18. Kennedy will receive an honorary doctorate of laws at the ceremony.
Are the ceremonies accessible?
All ceremony locations are accessible, and all accessible restrooms will be clearly marked. There is no designated wheelchair seating at the ceremonies. However, you can pull up your wheelchair to any row at the ceremonies for seating. Find more information.
What is the severe weather plan?
Because we do not have one indoor facility that is large enough to hold all of our graduates and guests, we will hold the University Commencement ceremony outside if at all possible. Please be aware that if there is just a little rain or periodic showers, the ceremony will likely remain outside. Two guest tickets are required if the ceremony moves indoors. Find more information.
I hear the Empire State Building will be lit Fordham maroon for the class of 2024. How can I join in the celebration?
New York’s Empire State Building will glow Fordham maroon on May 18—a commencement-night tribute to the Class of 2024 and a radiant symbol of the countless ways Fordham students, faculty, and alumni have lit up our hometown since 1841. Learn how to join the celebration on social media and where to watch from out of town.
I can’t make it to campus for Commencement. Where can I watch the ceremonies?
The University Commencement ceremony and each of the college and school diploma ceremonies will be livestreamed on our commencement website.
What hashtags or handles should I use when sharing photos or posts on social media?
Join the celebration by using the hashtag #Fordham2024, and don’t forget to tag us @fordhamuniversity with all social posts. We can’t wait to see your photos and celebrate this special day with you!
For all remaining commencement-related questions, visit our commencement website.
