Commencement

Information for parents and guests

smiling graduate posing with their child

Goodwin University is pleased to welcome you to the 2026 Commencement. We are delighted to be celebrating with you and your family during this exciting time.

Here are some things you need to know for your graduate’s big day:

Parking

Guests will park in the lot at the main campus building and will be directed by our security team.

Accessibility

Guests requiring accessibility services must register in advance. The tent will open at 2 p.m. for restricted mobility seating ONLY. The tent will open for seating at 3 p.m. for all other guests.

Arrival and entry

The 2026 Commencement will be held outdoors in the courtyard at the Goodwin University campus. The ceremony begins at 4 p.m. The tent opens for seating at 3 p.m. We will not be seating guests any earlier than 3 p.m., unless accessibility services were pre-arranged. Tickets are required for guests. We recommend arriving early to allow time for entry

Each student will receive four tickets, which must be distributed in advance. They cannot distribute tickets on the day of the event. Children 2 years of age and under do not need a ticket and must sit on a lap. They cannot occupy a seat.

All guests will receive a wristband after checking in with their ticket. Guests will not be allowed into the Commencement Ceremony without a ticket. Students participating in the ceremony do not need a ticket.

Bag policy

  • Bags and purses must not exceed 12″ x 6″ x 12″
  • Backpacks and briefcases are not permitted
    • Exceptions:
      • Diaper bags (when attending with a small child)
      • Medical equipment bags
  • All bags are subject to inspection upon entry

Prohibited items

Food and beverage

  • Alcohol is not allowed
  • Coolers, cans, and glass containers are prohibited

Fan items and ceremony etiquette

  • Artificial noisemakers (horns, whistles, etc.) are not permitted
  • Large banners, flags, or posters are not allowed
  • Sports items (balls, frisbees, etc.) are prohibited

Safety and comfort

  • Umbrellas are not permitted (ponchos are recommended)
  • Smoking, including e-cigarettes and vaping, is not allowed
  • Weapons of any kind are strictly prohibited
  • Fireworks, flares, smoke devices, and similar items are not allowed
  • Balloons are not permitted
  • Selfie sticks and laser pointers are not permitted
  • Only service animals are allowed on campus

Water and flowers

Complimentary water will be available around the courtyard. Flowers will be available for purchase on-site.

Livestream

A livestream of the ceremony will be available on the Goodwin University website and in the auditorium at the main campus building.

Photography

GradImages is the official photographer for the 2026 Commencement. A package with proofs and order information will be mailed to graduates’ homes after graduation.

Please note that guests will not be allowed to come to the front of the stage or into the aisles for photos of or with their graduate. You will be asked to move out of the aisle or from the front of the stage by a Goodwin University staff member.

Printed Commencement program

Printed programs will be available with a QR code linking to the list of graduates.

Duration of ceremony

The duration of the ceremony is approximately two hours. Out of respect for all graduates, graduates are expected to remain for the entire ceremony.