When, where and what time will the commencement ceremony take place?

The 2023 Commencement ceremony will begin at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 20 in the Spurlock Center Gymnasium on the Franklin College Campus. The event will be live-streamed on our website.

Are any COVID protocols in place?

No.  In keeping with the Fortify Franklin guidelines, masking was discontinued on March 14, 2022.  Masking is optional in all campus settings for all individuals, regardless of vaccination status.

I am a guest and not familiar with the campus. How do I know where to go?

Please use this map of the Franklin College campus to park and get to the Spurlock Center.

How long should I expect the ceremony to take?

On average, the commencement ceremony lasts two hours.

Do I need a ticket to attend the ceremony?

Yes, a ticket is required to attend the commencement ceremony.  Six tickets were distributed to each graduate to be used at their discretion.  Guests without tickets may view the ceremony virtually.  

Are children required to have a ticket?

Yes, children that will not be held (utilizing a seat or bleacher space) will require a ticket.  We respectfully ask that all children be accompanied by an adult during the entire commencement ceremony.  

Is there accessible seating available at the Spurlock Center?

Yes, accessible seating is available.  To reserve accessible seating please contact Libby Deckard in the Franklin College Office of the President at ldeckard@FranklinCollege.edu or 317.738.8010.

What is proper etiquette for acknowledging our graduates during the ceremony?

We ask guests to respect the dignity of the occasion and hold their applause and cheers until the opportunity for all graduates to be acknowledged together.  This courtesy allows each graduate’s name to be heard clearly.

 Where can I park?

Parking for graduates and guests will be available in these campus lots: Hamilton, Park Avenue, Goodell, Facilities, Spurlock, and Grizzly Park. Student Foundation members will be providing golf cart transportation from the parking lots to the Spurlock Center.  The doors will open at 9 a.m. for guest seating.

Will there be a baccalaureate service?

The Franklin College Baccalaureate service will be held on Friday, May 19 at 4:30 p.m. in the Spurlock Center on campus.  No tickets are required for this event.

A reception for graduates and guests will be held in the Napolitan Student Center immediately following the baccalaureate service.  Hors d’oeuvres will be served. Visit the baccalaureate page for more information.

What if I have additional questions?

For questions not answered here, please contact Jan Schantz in the Office of the President at 317.738.8009 or on her cell phone at 317.362.6344.