Prepare

Important Date Deadlines

  • Ticket Registration IS OPEN (Remember to login with your Clark Email, please contact the help desk at 1-508-793-7745 if you need your account)
  • March 21, 2025: Deadline to register your attendance (RSVP) and order your tickets.
  • March 21, 2025: Deadline to order your gap and gown. Regalia store closes.
  • May 13–14, 2025: Students must pick up their caps and gowns, between noon to 7 p.m. in Higgins University Center, Grace Conference Room
  • May 19, 2025: “The Big Day,” undergraduate students must arrive at the DCU Center at 8:30 a.m. and graduate students at 1:30 p.m. Shuttle buses from Atwood Plaza to the DCU Center will be provided for students throughout the day starting at 7:45 a.m. until 5:30 p.m.

Etiquette

The DCU Center has its own set of policies for allowed/prohibited items. That means no helium balloons or parcels, but you can take photos and videos from your phone.

  • Tickets will be scanned at entrances
  • Each entrance has metal detectors
  • Signs will not be permitted
  • Bag policy
    Small wristlets of a maximum size of 8 x 10 inches will be permitted. Medical bags and diaper bags will be allowed and will be checked prior to entry. All other bags such as cross-body, larger totes, backpacks, duffle bags, etc. will not be permitted for public events.
  • Food and beverage policy
    No outside food or beverages are allowed inside the DCU Center. We will have concession stands open with options for your indulgence.

Where to eat

Many parents, students, and family members choose to dine out following the conclusion of the commencement ceremony. We encourage our guests to visit the Central Massachusetts Visitors website when considering the dining options.

Gifts for graduates

The Campus Store offers a wide variety of items, including many great gifts for graduates. Order online, or visit the Store on the first floor of the Shaich Family Alumni and Student Engagement Center:

  • Monday, May 12 – Thursday, May 15: 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
  • Friday, May 16: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
  • Saturday, May 17: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
  • Sunday, May 18: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
  • Monday, May 19: 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Order online

For assistance or additional information, please email the Commencement Office