Inside the Ceremony

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.

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

First Aid and Emergency Procedures

Safety is our top priority during every ceremony. 

First Aid: Medical staff are on-site throughout the event. The first aid room is located on the concourse behind Section 3/4. If you or your guest need assistance, please alert an usher or Purdue staff member.

Ceremony Exit Plan: After the ceremony concludes or in the event of an emergency, please utilize the closest stairwell to return to the concourse and locate the nearest exit to you.

Restrooms: Restrooms are located on the concourse level of Mackey; there are two family restrooms located near Section 16 and Section 9/10. Mackey also offers a nursing mothers room, which is located adjacent to the ticket office. Please notify an usher if access to the room is needed.

Concessions: An array of concessions stands will be open inside of Mackey offering soft drinks, water and a variety of food options.

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.