Inside the Ceremony

A Ceremony Like No Other

From the sound of “Pomp and Circumstance” to the turning of tassels, every moment of Purdue’s commencement honors more than a century of Boilermaker tradition. 

Doors open 90 minutes before each ceremony, giving you time to find your seat before graduates begin their procession into Elliott Hall of Music — a proud walk led by faculty and university leaders. Each candidate’s name is read aloud as they cross the stage, marking a personal moment of achievement. 

As the final notes of “Hail Purdue” echo through the hall, graduates exit to cheers, cameras and celebration — marking the start of their next giant leap. 

Graduates turning their tassels during commencement
A faculty member hoods the graduate
Purdue President Mung Chiang addresses graduates during commencement

Academic Regalia and Traditions

Attire

The caps, gowns and hoods you’ll see are symbols of scholarly achievement that date back to medieval universities. The tassel and hood colors represent the academic college or school.

  • Gowns: Represent the degree level — bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral. 
  • Hoods: Lined with colors that reflect each college or field of study. 
  • Tassels: Worn on the right for undergraduate students, moved to the left once degrees are conferred.  Graduate students wear tassels on the left.

Ceremony

  • Procession: The ceremony opens with a formal processional of graduates, faculty and university leaders.
  • Music: Join in singing our National Anthem and Purdue Hymn, our Alma Mater, with additional entertainment from Purdue Musical Organizations.
  • Words of inspiration: Throughout the ceremony university leaders, a featured speaker and representatives from the graduating class reflect on the journey to graduation and what lies ahead.
  • Achievement and honors: Special achievements and distinguished degrees are recognized. Student athletes wear a medallion in recognition of their hard work and dedication in balancing academic and athletic commitments.
  • Degree recognition: Degrees are officially conferred with individual recognition by the president of the university — marking the transformation from student to graduate.
  • Recession: The ceremony concludes with a formal recessional. Following the graduates’ exit, guests are invited to meet and celebrate with their Boilermaker.

Participants

In addition to university leadership represented on stage, the following participants play key roles in the commencement ceremony, helping guide graduates into the celebration and ensuring the ceremony is meaningful and accessible for all in attendance:

  • Grand Marshal: A member of university leadership, the Grand Marshal leads the division’s candidates into the ceremony holding the university mace — an ornate staff representing power and a call to order bearing the university seal.
  • Marshal for the Candidates: Each college or school is represented by a member of leadership, who serves as the Marshal for the candidates, leading them into the ceremony.
  • Banner Bearer: A student representative from each college or school carries their banner during the procession ahead of the candidates.
  • Interpreter: There will be sign language interpreters on-hand ensuring our candidates and guests can fully experience the ceremony.

Traditions

  • Paper airplanes taking flight: A favorite tradition of aviation and aeronautics graduates at the conclusion of their division’s ceremony.
  • Purdue Bell Tower: Graduates walk under the Bell Tower and onto the seal after commencement for good luck!
  • Capture the moment: Take memento shots around campus of your graduates in their attire. Some favorite locations include:
    • The Engineering Fountain
    • Gateway to the Future Arch (at the intersection of Stadium Avenue and University Street)
    • The iconic staircase of Hovde Hall
    • The John Purdue sculpture
    • Purdue Bell Tower
    • The Purdue Memorial Union Gateway

Elliott Hall of Music

Elliott Hall has hosted commencement since 1940 and is among the largest proscenium theatres in the country. Its historic stage has seen thousands of Boilermakers become graduates. 

Location: 712 Third Street, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907

Seating: 6,000+ across three levels 

Accessibility: Accessible entrances on the north and south sides 

Note: Elliott Hall does not have elevators

Restrooms and Accessibility

Accessible restrooms are located at:

  • The south entrance of Elliott Hall of Music (ground level) 
  • Stewart Center (main floor and east end) 
  • Hovde Hall (ground and first floors)

Staff and volunteers will be available throughout Elliott Hall to assist with accessible seating and mobility needs.

First Aid and Emergency Procedures

Safety is our top priority during every ceremony. 

First Aid: Medical staff are on-site throughout the event. If you or your guest need assistance, please alert an usher or Purdue staff member.

Emergency Guidelines:

  • Fire alarm: Evacuate immediately and move to the nearest parking lot or open area. 
  • Tornado warning: Move to the lowest level, away from doors and windows. 
  • Active threat: If evacuation isn’t possible, shelter in a secure, windowless room. 
  • Hazardous materials: Remain indoors, close doors and windows, and wait for updates. 

When you hear outdoor sirens, seek shelter indoors immediately. 

Getting ready for the big day? Find key details for families and guests planning to attend commencement.

Learn more