Commencement
We rejoice with you as you journey toward Commencement.
The information provided on this webpage is designed to help you navigate the deadlines and forms that are required to graduate and participate in the commencement ceremony. You will also find detailed information about the ceremonies, academic attire, and helpful suggestions for making the most of this special time. If you have any questions along the way, please feel free to reach out!
Commencement Events
Commencement vs. Graduation – What’s the difference?
You may hear the two words used interchangeably, but there’s a difference between graduation and commencement! Graduation is the completion of all degree requirements as recorded on your official transcript. Commencement is the ceremony that celebrates the completion of a degree. While encouraged, participation in the commencement ceremonies is not required.
CLASS OF 2021
Virtual Commencement Ceremony
Friday, May 14, at 4:00 p.m.
You and your families are invited to will join us by Zoom to celebrate you and your accomplishments. You are encouraged to wear your academic attire and you will be acknowledged during the ceremony.
To participate in this Zoom celebration, check your HNU email for login information.
This ceremony will be live-streamed here.
Drive-Through Ceremony
Saturday, May 15, at 4:00 p.m.
You and your families are invited to drive to campus for a drive-through ceremony. This will include driving around the perimeter of the campus and stopping at the entrance to the Valley Center for the Performing Arts. When you stop, your name will be called as you get out of the car, you will receive your diploma cover and commencement program, and your picture will be taken (which will be available for purchase following the ceremony). You are asked/encouraged to wear your academic attire for this ceremony, too. The faculty and staff will be located around the campus to cheer you on and celebrate this important step with you.
One car per graduate, please.
This ceremony will be live-streamed here.
CLASS OF 2020
Virtual Commencement Ceremony
Friday, May 14, at 6:30 p.m.
You and your families are invited to will join us by Zoom to celebrate you and your accomplishments. You are encouraged to wear your academic attire and you will be acknowledged during the ceremony.
To participate in this Zoom celebration, check your HNU email for login information.
This ceremony will be live-streamed here.
Drive-Through Ceremony
Saturday, May 15, at 2:00 p.m.
You and your families are invited to drive to campus for a drive-through ceremony. This will include driving around the perimeter of the campus and stopping at the entrance to the Valley Center for the Performing Arts. When you stop, your name will be called as you get out of the car, you will receive your diploma cover and commencement program, and your picture will be taken (which will be available for purchase following the ceremony). You are asked/encouraged to wear your academic attire for this ceremony, too. The faculty and staff will be located around the campus to cheer you on and celebrate this important step with you.
One car per graduate, please.
This ceremony will be live-streamed here.
Commencement Attire
All students intending to participate in the May commencement ceremonies must place their order online prior to the deadline. The cost of the attire – consisting of a gap, gown, tassel, degree-specific hood (or stole for credential and certificate students), and stole of gratitude – is covered by your graduation fee. The deadline for ordering attire was April 19, 2021.
Commencement Attire
Order Your Class Rings
Simply go to jostens.com and select Holy Names University. Design a ring and then save it under the your email address. Questions? Email Penny Osorio at penny.osorio@jostens.com.
Order Class Rings Here
Pay Student Account Balance by May 1, 2021
Pay your student account balance by May 1. Log in to the Student Account Center to review your account and make a payment.
Login to Student Account CenterLearn more about our past Commencements
Questions?
- Commencement ceremony: Eleanor McFarlin at mcfarlin@hnu.edu or 510.436.1280
- Academic-related: Registrar’s Office at registrar@hnu.edu or 510.436.1133
- Financial Aid: Financial aid office at financialaid@hnu.edu or 510.436.1327
- Student Accounts: Liz Aswegan at aswegan@hnu.edu or 510.436.1425
- Accessibility Information: Rebecca Whitney at whitney@hnu.edu or 510.436.1394