Stark Commencement Ceremony

TICKETS

Due to limited seating in the Stark Conference Center, each graduate who makes a reservation to attend commencement will receive a maximum of 4 guest tickets. All guests (including children 2 years and older) must have a ticket to enter the ceremony venue. Admission is free and tickets must be picked up by the graduate.

ADDITIONAL TICKETS

The deadline to make your reservation is Friday, May 2. Tickets not claimed by Friday, May 2, will be made available on a first-come, first-served basis to graduates desiring additional tickets. IF tickets are available, graduates may pick up two additional tickets beginning Monday, May 5, in the Office of Student Services, 132 Main Hall, while supplies last.

For disability accommodations for graduates and guests, please contact Ruby Groves at rbgroves@kent.edu or 330-244-3279.

STARK COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY DETAILS

 
GRADUATE ARRIVAL 

Arrive one hour before your ceremony begins.  
11 a.m. Ceremony - Arrive by 10 a.m. 
3 p.m. Ceremony - Arrive by 2 p.m.

Your guests will be directed to the seating area. Graduates will be directed to the graduate check-in and staging area when you arrive. Leave your valuables with your guests. Graduates should come dressed in their cap and gown. Staff will provide graduates with ceremony instructions. The ceremony will start promptly at 11 a.m. or 3 p.m.

ATTIRE FOR GRADUATES

Acceptable attire for under your gown is smart casual dress, such as dresses, skirts or dress pants.

PARKING AT THE CONFERENCE CENTER

The Conference Center is located at the University Drive entrance at Kent State Stark. Ample, free parking is available at the Conference Center. Accessible parking is available. If overflow parking is necessary, parking will be available in the lot next to the Recreation & Wellness Center. Guests can be dropped off at the front entrance of the Conference Center. ​​​​

PROHIBITED ITEMS

Latex balloons are not permitted in the Conference Center or at the ceremony. 

LENGTH OF CEREMONY

Each ceremony lasts less than 90 minutes. 

PHOTO WITH THE DEAN

Graduates will have the opportunity to have a photo taken with Dr. Denise A. Seachrist in the staging area. Links to the photo gallery will be posted on this website the week following the ceremony. 

RECEIVING YOUR DIPLOMA

Kent State University has partnered with Parchment Inc. to improve the diploma fulfillment process for graduates. Upon final degree approval:

• Your digital diploma will arrive approximately 4-5 weeks after commencement. Watch for an email notification.
  • Notification will be sent to your Kent State email.
  • Follow the link to set up your Parchment Digital credentials account.
  • Share and Download your digital diploma as many times as you like.
• Paper diplomas will be mailed separately to your permanent address on file 7-10 days after you receive your digital diploma. 

To verify a diploma or permanent address:

1. Sign in to FlashLine
2. Select the Student category
3. Select Dashboard
4. Select My Personal Information located under Profile

Contact the Office of the University Registrar directly at gradsvc@kent.edu with any diploma questions.