When you arrive - What to do

1. Graduates: you should leave valuables/bags/jackets in a secure location and not bring them with you on stage (but please bring your platform card!). You will not be able to leave anything at your seat on stage and you will not be returning to the same seat.
    
2. Proceed to the "Platform Card Table" near the big white tent to receive your platform card. Keep this card with you. The platform card will include your name, faculty, program, and platform number on it. You will give this card to the name reader when you cross the stage so keep it handy. The name reader will use it to announce your name as you cross the stage. If you have a name that is normally difficult to pronounce, you may want to use a pen/marker to add a phonetic spelling of your name to the card to assist the reader.
   
   
3. Next, proceed to pick up your regalia in the "Big White Tent". You will require your Gaspard's rental receipt in order to pick it up. There will be volunteers in the area to help place your hood on correctly. Your hood is the symbol of your program's credential and will hang around your neck and down your back. Hoods will not be pinned in place.
   
   
4. Next, ask a volunteer where your marshalling area is and then proceed to it. This is where you will be organized by the number on your platform card. You will be lined up with other graduates from your program. Be ready in your respective marshalling area to get ready to line up before your ceremony start time. Please leave yourself lots of time to marshal. There will be volunteers around to help you! If you’re not sure what you should be doing, please ask!
   
   
5. Next, follow the marshal's instructions on when to enter into the auditorium and where to sit on stage. As a reminder, the ceremony will be recorded and streamed live so smile for the camera!
   
   
6. Next, you will cross the stage (about an hour into the ceremony).
    
7. The Marshals will direct you on where to go, and when. Note: please do not leave anything at your seat as you will likely not return to the same seat once you’ve crossed the stage.
   
   
8. You will walk from behind the podium and present your platform card to the Name Reader.
   
   
9. As you cross the stage, your name will be read.
   
   
10. You will cross the stage, nod to the Chancellor and President, then walk to the Dean at the end of the stage and pause to shake their hand and take a photo.
    
    
11. After you cross the stage, you will go behind the black curtains to receive your Alumni scarf memorabilia.
    
    
12. You will then return to a seat for the duration of the ceremony.
    
    
13. Once the ceremony has concluded, a bagpiper will lead you out of the out of the Auditorium.
     
14. Reception time: Time to celebrate!  You and your guests are invited to attend a reception for mingling, complimentary light refreshments, photo opportunities, and more. This will also be the location for regalia return and parchment pick up.

We are very excited to have you join us for this special day and look forward to celebrating your academic achievements! Should you have any questions about the ceremony, please contact convocation@lakeheadu.ca.