Important Graduate Hooding and Commencement Updates for the Class of 2025

We are excited to reach out to you today to share additional information about our plans to celebrate the Class of 2025. As we move through this spring semester, we are preparing a ceremony like no other, in true IC style—with spirit, joy, and a deep sense of community.

Graduate Hooding and Commencement Information

Date: Saturday, May 17, 2025
Time: 1:00 p.m. ET (Graduates line-up at noon, Guests should be seated by 12:45 p.m.)
Location: Glazer Arena, Athletics & Events Center

Each student who participates will have the opportunity to sit next to their friends within their cohort, walk across the stage while having their name called, and get photos taken by a professional photographer both on and off the stage.

Due to the smaller numbers involved with the Graduate Hooding and Commencement ceremony on Saturday, all family and friends are cordially invited to attend. There will not be a limit on how many guests you may bring, and tickets are not required. The ceremony will also be live streamed. (Please remember to share information about this ceremony with your supporters, as we will not be reaching out to them on your behalf.)

Requirements for Graduation

RSVP Through Tassel 
In mid-February you will receive a personalized email to your IC email account with instructions on the registration process for the Commencement ceremony through our partner platform Tassel. Completion of the RSVP form is REQUIRED for all Class of 2025 graduates. 

The email will also share additional information for the 2025 Commencement planning process, including instructions for:

  • Creating and setting up your Tassel account.
     
  • Completing and editing your personalized appreciation slide (image, chosen name, and personal message) which will be displayed during the Commencement ceremony.
     
  • Recording your name as it will be pronounced during the ceremony.


The firm deadline for you to submit a completed RSVP is Tuesday, April 15, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. ET . Due to the extensive planning required to host this event, it is necessary that we receive a completed RSVP by that date. There will NOT be a second opportunity to submit a completed RSVP once this deadline passes. 

April 1, 11:59 p.m. | Deadline for Ordering Grad Regalia (Cap, Gown & Hood) 
Regalia is required for graduates at Commencement. Regalia can be purchased effective immediately at this link. Please utilize the selection listed, "Grad Hooding May 2025." This year, academic regalia will be available for pick-up in the Campus Store. Be sure to order your regalia in advance! 

Early April | First Destination Survey Goes Live 
Completing the First Destination Survey is required in order to have your diploma mailed to you.

Additional Important Upcoming Dates

Grad n’ Go Commencement Pop-Up Series 
We encourage you to be on the lookout for more information about our Commencement Pop-Up Series. These events, which will be held throughout the spring semester, are intended to build excitement for your upcoming graduation and help you navigate the required steps you need to take to prepare for your big moment crossing the stage! Each of these pop-up events will have a specific theme and will give you the opportunity to connect directly with our commencement committee to receive further support. Mark your calendars for the following dates and we look forward to sharing more information soon:

  • Wednesday , February 19
  • Thursday, March 6
  • Thursday, April 10


May 17, 8:30 p.m. | Commencement Eve Concert and Fireworks 
Plan to join us for this annual IC tradition that showcases the talents of our student performers. 

We are so very excited to celebrate you in May! The Commencement Planning Committee will share information about keynote speakers, honorees, and more details about our plans as they solidify. Remember to check the Commencement website regularly for updates, and direct any questions about Commencement to commencement@ithaca.edu

Warmly, 

The Commencement Committee Co-Chairs
Doreen Hettich-Atkins, Jeff Golden, Mark Yeager