Dear Graduate Students Completing Degrees in 2026,
As you near the completion of your graduate studies, we’re excited to share details about an important milestone — Graduate Hooding and Commencement. This event celebrates not only the culmination of your advanced academic and professional work, but also the dedication, perseverance, and passion that have brought you to this point. During the ceremony, you will be hooded by your faculty, and we will formally confer your graduate degree. We look forward to this opportunity to honor you and your fellow Ithaca College graduate students for your remarkable accomplishments.
Date and Time: Saturday, May 16, 2026, at 1:00 p.m.
Location: Glazer Arena, Athletics and Events Center
Arrival and Duration: Doors open at 12:00 p.m. Graduates should arrive no later than 12:30 p.m. and guests should be seated by 12:30 p.m. The ceremony is expected to end by 2:30 p.m.
Announcing Plans for May 2026 Graduate Hooding and Commencement
RSVP for Graduate Hooding and Commencement
In February, eligible graduates will receive an invitation to join Tassel, our official Commencement and Graduate Hooding registration platform. Through Tassel, you’ll be able to:
- Confirm your participation in the ceremony or let us know you can’t make it.
- Submit pronunciation guidance for your name.
- Review additional next steps.
If you are expecting to complete your graduate degree and do not receive any communication by late February , please contact us at commencement@ithaca.edu.
Additional Details
To help you start your planning, below are some topics that we get asked about frequently.
Eligibility
Students are deemed eligible for Graduate Hooding and Commencement once they have successfully applied for a degree through the Office of the Registrar.
Regalia
Graduation regalia – cap, gown, and hood – is required for all Class of 2026 graduates planning to participate in the Graduate Hooding and Commencement ceremony. Regalia is available through the Campus Store.
Guests
Due to the smaller numbers involved with the Graduate Hooding and Commencement ceremony, all family and friends of graduate students are cordially invited to attend. There will not be a limit on how many guests may attend, and tickets are not required. Seating is first come, first serve.
Livestream
We will be offering a livestream of the ceremony for family members and supporters who are unable to travel to Ithaca for the celebration.
Commencement Website
More information about Commencement Weekend can be found on the Commencement website, which will be updated periodically as the event date approaches. Please note that the website will be undergoing construction over the next few months and will debut a new look by February. We appreciate your patience as we enhance the site to better serve our graduates and their guests.
Class of 2026, it is our intention to offer you a meaningful, joyful moment that is reflective of all the magic that is Ithaca College. We cannot wait to celebrate with you and your loved ones in May!
Sincerely,
The Commencement Committee