Basic Information

There are two commencement events each year:

• Winter - December 2008
  Tickets not required.  The winter commencement event is held at the Bennett Sports Center.

Caps and Gowns Distribution

Caps and gowns will be picked up by graduate students the day of commencements from 12:00 noon until 2:00 p.m. in the Hach Center.  The hood will be presented on stage.

Do not pin anything on your cap or gown.  The cap, gown, tassel, and hood are yours to keep.

Tassel should be worn on the right side until degrees are conferred.

Name Card

A 3x5 card with your name will be handed out at the reception.  Carry this card with you as you line up for the processional.  Hand the card to the announcer who will read your name as you cross the stage.  If your name is difficult or frequently mispronounced, write it phonetically at the bottom of the card.

Procession Line Up

The graduate school marshals will ask the students to line up at 2:15 p.m. and will take them to the designated site.

Those wishing to sit together during the ceremony should line up in front or back of one another during the processional.  Graduates will march into the ceremony down the center aisle and will be directed to the right and left seating areas by faculty marshals.

Seating and Parking for Guests who are Handicapped

Seating will be available for those who are handicapped.  Seating is limited to the guest requiring special seating and one additional family member.  Please notify the registrar of any requests at 989.837.4417.

Dress and Conduct

Graduates should dress in business attire.

Diploma Cover

You will be handed a diploma cover when you cross the stage during commencement.  Retain this cover for your diploma, which will arrive by mail.

Class Ring Information

The purchase of class rings is handled through the bookstore.  Contact the bookstore at 989.837.4225 for further information.

Photographs

Pictures will be taken as you cross the stage.  These pictures may be ordered through the photographer.  Photo cards will be given to you when you pick up your cap and gown.  Please complete all sections of the card and hand it to the photographer's assistant as you approach the stage for graduation.

Guests may take photographs from their seats during the ceremony, as long as it does not interfere with the proceedings.

Transcripts

The official legal document verifying degree completion is the academic transcript.  Transcripts contain a complete record of all courses taken, grades earned, grade point average, degree awarded, and majors completed.

Your transcript is an official academic document.  In order to protect your privacy and the integrity of the academic process, certain regulations apply regarding how and when this document may be provided to third parties.  Requests for transcripts must be made in writing including signature and date. Please mail requests to:

Kathleen Daniels-Durkee  –  Registrar
Northwood University
4000 Whiting Drive
Midland, MI  48640

The request must clearly state the name and address of the person and/or business where the transcript will be sent.  Print your name and social security number clearly on the request. 

Official transcripts carry the signature of the Registrar and the Seal of the University.  These are ordered for employers, graduate schools, or examination boards such as the CPA or law school.  Only unofficial transcripts are sent to students.  The word “official” means that it is sent directly from Northwood University to the employer or school without going through students’ hands.  Transcripts can not be released if the student has outstanding debt with Northwood University.