Students who plan to graduate in May need to apply for commencement.
The deadline to apply for your diploma and for your name to appear in the commencement program is Feb. 26.
“You can always apply for graduation, but we have a deadline to turn in your application to get your name in the commencement program,” said Pam Bobier, assistant director of academic services.
Some people find out they can graduate in May after the deadline passes. They still can apply to walk, but their name may not appear in the commencement program, she said.
There is a separate form for these students to fill out in addition to the first application.
Students may print a copy of the application or pick up a copy in the campus bookstore in Tom and Brenda McDaniel University Center. They need to fill out the information, have it signed by an adviser and take it to the registrar’s office in Clara E. Jones Administration building.
Undergraduate application. Graduate application.
Students also can order academic regalia in the bookstore, Bobier said.
“It’ll take at least four weeks, maybe a little longer, to get your cap and gown,” Bobier said.
The Baccalaureate service will begin at 9 a.m. May 7 in Bishop W. Angie Smith Chapel.
Undergraduate commencement will begin at 11 a.m. and the graduate commencement will begin at 3 p.m. Both ceremonies will be May 7 in Henry J. Freede Wellness and Activity Center.
The undergraduate speaker has not been finalized.
One student doesn’t think the speaker matters.
“Honestly I just want to graduate. Who cares who speaks,” said Erick Meza, business finance senior.
Dr. Stephen Prilliman, recipient of the Outstanding Faculty Award, will be the graduate commencement speaker, said Kent Buchanan, interim provost.
“Get there early,” Buchanan said. “There’s a lot of interaction with your colleagues in the hallway and it gets rambunctious and loud. Show up on time and enjoy the process. And be prepared to take pictures.”
Tickets aren’t required for the ceremonies, but seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
“Enjoy your time at OCU while you still have it,” Alumnus Andy Underkoffler said. “I know you’re excited and ready to graduate, but you will miss it once you’re out and wish that you would have had more time there.”
The Senior Sendoff Dinner to welcome graduating seniors into the Alumni Association will be from 6 to 8 p.m. May 5 in the Great Hall in Tom and Brenda McDaniel University Center. Seniors may each bring one guest. Each additional ticket is $15.
To R.S.V.P. to the dinner, call alumni relations at 405-208-5077.
To make a donation to the 2016 Senior Class Gift, call Carrie Sauer, assistant director of annual giving, at 405-208-5873.
Graduating students who contribute $20 or more will have the opportunity to send a message of thanks to their OCU mentor, receive a special tassel for graduation and be recognized at Senior Sendoff.
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