Planning for Weather

Get the Local Forecast

In an effort to accommodate seating for family members and guests, the College will always attempt to hold the Commencement ceremony outdoors. The weather in upstate New York can be unpredictable, so we caution all guests to check the weather in the days leading up to graduation and to prepare for any condition. We suggest dressing in layers and bringing appropriate outdoor accessories, such as sunscreen, blankets or stadium seats, umbrellas, and mittens.

In the case of severe weather in the morning, the outdoor ceremony may be postponed until either 1:00 p.m. or 4:00 p.m., based on the weather forecast.

In the event that severe weather is predicted for the entire day, Commencement will be moved into the Ben Light Gymnasium for a 10:00 a.m. start. Because of space limitations, in this situation only graduating students will be admitted into the gym. The procession will form in the basement of Hill Center at 9:00 a.m. Graduates will need their caps and gowns (these will serve as tickets) to enter the Hill Center. Family members and guests will be encouraged to watch the ceremony on local cable channel 16 from any of the locations on campus or from off campus. (See the Cablecast/Webcast section.)

The College will make announcements about weather-related changes to the Commencement ceremony via local radio and television stations. It will also be announced on campus, through the Campus Center information desk, (607) 274-3201, and through the local radio stations. (See the Information Sources section.)