FAQs

Response

When is this year’s commencement ceremony?

June 29th, 2024 from 1-2 PM EST (Virtual)

What is the format of this year’s commencement ceremony?

The commencement ceremony will take place online, with options for students, families, and staff to log on from wherever they are.

Which Relay locations and/or programs participate in the virtual commencement? 

All Relay graduates and candidates who have completed or are scheduled to complete academic  requirements in Academic Year 2023-24 (fall 2023, spring 2024 and anticipated summer 2024 completion) are invited to attend the virtual commencement ceremony.

Does commencement mean I’ve graduated from Relay?

No, the commencement ceremony may include students who are still completing degree-granting programs, advanced certification programs, and/or certification programs. In most cases, spring graduates will have already received confirmation of graduation or program completion before commencement. 

What can I expect in the virtual commencement ceremony? 

This ceremony allows students to celebrate their educational accomplishments and reflect on their academic journey. You can expect to hear from other graduate speakers, Relay leaders, and keynote speakers. Full program details will be shared closer to the date of the event. 

How do I attend the virtual commencement ceremony? 

Relay will share attendance instructions for students, their guests, and the larger Relay community later this spring. 

Can I invite others to the virtual commencement ceremony, and if so, how? 

Yes, Relay will share details for inviting guests later this spring.  

Can I participate as a speaker or reader in the virtual commencement ceremony?

Updated 2.26.24: Yes! We are looking for singers, speakers, readers, and more to participate in our ceremony. If you are interested, please complete this form to apply to participate by March 11, 2024. 

When will I be formally informed about my program completion status, if not at the commencement ceremony?

You will receive an email from the Registrar’s Office with your program completion status in the weeks following the term in which you complete all requirements for your program. Students completing their program in Spring 2024 should expect to receive official program completion emails between the dates of June 19 - 28.  

Will I be able to order regalia (cap and gown) for the virtual commencement? 

Students will be able to order an optional cap and gown from a third-party vendor. Information on how to order regalia is available here.

Students are not required to order a cap and gown.

What do I need to do to receive my diploma?

Students in a degree-granting program (e.g. Masters of Arts in Teaching) must complete an intent to graduate form before the end of the term when they intend to complete in order to be considered for program completion and receive their diploma. 

Students expecting to complete in the Spring 2024 term can expect to receive more details and instructions on next steps via email in March.

When will I receive my diploma? 

Diplomas are only awarded after completing all requirements of your program, and if eligible, you will receive details on your diploma from the Registrar’s Office. Please note that commencement is not recognition of program completion or degree, and most eligible students will not receive their diploma until after the commencement ceremony.