2009 Commencement

Schedule of Events

Graduate Hooding Ceremony

Friday, June 12, 8:45–9:15 a.m., Martin Square

Graduating master’s degree students are invited to the Graduate Hooding Ceremony, during which their program director and dean will hood them. Master’s degree students are then invited to process with the faculty and participate in the Ivy Cutting ceremony. Doctoral students are also invited, but they will be formally hooded at Commencement. Tickets are not required, but graduates should wear caps and gowns.

Ivy Cutting

Friday, June 12, 9:30–10:30 a.m., Tiffany Loop

Ivy Cutting has been part of graduation rites at Seattle Pacific University since 1922. Today, graduating undergraduate students and SPU faculty members don their academic garb and assemble in Tiffany Loop beneath towering elm trees, continuing this tradition. The ceremony represents both the students' tie to Seattle Pacific and the independence that comes with graduation. Light refreshments follow in Tiffany Loop. Tickets are not required, but graduates should wear caps and gowns.

Baccalaureate

Friday, June 12, 7:30–8:30 p.m., Royal Brougham Pavilion

Baccalaureate is an informal worship service shared by graduates and their families, friends, and professors. There will be no processional nor will any special seating arrangement be followed. Tickets are not required, and caps and gowns are not needed.

Commencement Exercises

Sunday, June 14, 2 –5 p.m., Safeco Field, 1250 First Avenue South, Seattle
Commencement is a time-honored ceremony that recognizes the scholarship, service, and Christian growth of graduating students. It is the celebratory service where students, faculty, friends, parents, relatives, and staff congratulate students for their new beginning. The 2009 Commencement speaker is Dr. John Perkins.

Tickets (free) are required for admission for all guests (age 3 and over) and graduates. Note: Students are responsible to pick up their tickets and distribute them to their guests. See the Undergraduate and Graduate Commencement instructions for more information.

Safeco Field is an outdoor arena that can be covered in case of rain. Because it is still an outdoor event, however, please dress appropriately. Stadium doors will open at 12:45 p.m. The ceremony will conclude at about 5 p.m.

 

Parking is available for $10 (cash) per car in the Safeco Field Garage, located just south of the ballpark on Edgar Martinez Drive at First Avenue. (Directions to Safeco Field.) Parking is also available at various area parking lots.

 

Special Considerations

Safeco Field has ADA seating for those in wheelchairs. Note: Companion seats are available in the ADA section, as well. To access the ADA seating, use the Third Base Entry. Safeco Field staff will take guests in wheelchairs up an elevator to the main seating area, while you park the car.

For those who have difficulty walking long distances, elevator access is available in many areas, and staff will be on hand to direct guests accordingly.

NOTE: If you need ADA seating for the on-campus Commencement events or hearing interpretation for any of the events, contact the Office of Academic Affairs by May 8, by calling 206-281-2125 or emailing graduationinfo@spu.edu with the events attending and accommodations needed.

Due to security concerns, wrapped packages and balloons are not permitted inside Safeco Field. Visit this website regularly for any additional information and updates as they are available.

After Party

Safeco Field can host family gatherings immediately following the Commencement Exercises, and a 10 percent discount would apply to the room rental fee. Food and beverage service is extra. Direct all inquiries to Safeco Field Events at 206-346-4228 or events@mariners.com.

Commencement FAQ

If you have additional questions, please check the Commencement FAQ. If you don't find your answer there, call 206-281-2125 or email graduationinfo@spu.edu.