Commencement

Commencement Update 

Dear Class of 2020,

Fall Virtual Commencement will take place on Sunday, December 13th at 2 p.m.

Many of you have been asking questions regarding commencement. Please see below for a list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) regarding virtual commencement and other options.

• If I participate in the Virtual Commencement can I still participate in a future traditional ceremony?
  Yes! All fall graduates will be able to participate in both the virtual ceremony along with a traditional ceremony in the future.
• When will the spring commencement dates be announced?
  We are closely following the COVID-19 safety guidelines mandated by the state. The dates for Spring Commencement are TBD.
• What if I can’t attend a future traditional ceremony?
  We understand that not all students can attend in-person ceremonies but may still want a picture with President Rosenberg. If you can’t attend a future traditional ceremony after the pandemic has subsided and it is safe to return to the university, President Rosenberg will make himself available for a photo opportunity with the graduate, taken in regalia, to commemorate the occasion. 
• Can graduates still purchase regalia, class ring, and graduation merchandise?
  Herff Jones has established an online store for those who would like to purchase regalia and/or a class ring and is offering free shipping within the United States to personal or business addresses. This option is available to all FIU students who still wish to order their grad gear. Any unopened, unused product can be returned – details at www.herffjones.com/collegereturns. Additionally, graduates can purchase FIU mementos and merchandise online through Barnes & Noble at fiu.bncollege.com – also with free domestic ground shipping on all purchases.
• How will Virtual Commencement work?

  On December 13th at 2 p.m., the Virtual Ceremonies will launch on the vendor’s website. You will be able to watch at any time after 2 p.m. Each school will have their own ceremony. You will be able to click on your college’s ceremony, and watch the President’s and Dean’s remarks, and graduate slides that will contain the name of the graduate, degree, and a photo and/or video they submit.

  There will also be a search bar under the ceremony video where graduates can search up their name and receive a 45 second clip unique to them. The clip will include footage of the university, a quick message from President Rosenberg, and their graduate slide.

• Can I download the clip and share it with my family and social media?
  Yes! Once downloaded, you will be able to keep the clip and share it with your loved ones.
• How do we submit a photo and video for the virtual ceremony?
  You will receive an e-mail in the coming weeks to submit the photo, video, and quote. More details, including the submission deadline will be enclosed in this e-mail correspondence. 
• How do I register for Virtual Commencement?
  You do not need to register for Virtual Commencement like you did for the traditional ceremony. You will just need to submit your photo and/or video through the link the Commencement Team will be sending in the next coming days.
• What is the cutoff date to apply for graduation in order to participate in the Virtual Commencement?
  Please check back for the deadline to apply for graduation to be included in the Fall Virtual Commencement Ceremony. 
• What if I don’t submit a photo and/or video?
  If you do not submit a photo and/or video, you will still be part of the ceremony and have your own slide. The photo that will be used will be your FIU One Card photo. You will still also receive your unique 45 second clip. *This does not apply to students with FERPA designationunless previously cleared or authorized.*
• What type of photo should I submit?
  We recommend you submit a headshot or even your best selfie!
• What should I say in my video and how long should it be?
  We recommend you express your gratitude to those who helped you get to this memorable moment and your love for FIU! The video should be no longer than 10 seconds. Don’t forget to show your Panther Pride!