Information about Commencement
For Graduates
Regalia
Meadville Lombard graduates traditionally wear black robes and academic hoods specific to their degree. You can bring your own robe, or Meadville Lombard can provide one for you. Graduates have the option of purchasing their hood, instead of renting it for the ceremony. This year, graduates also have the option of purchasing used robes. Please contact Lynn Penn-Hargrove for more information.
Diploma
If you attend the Commencement Ceremony, you will receive an empty diploma holder during the ceremony. After the ceremony, you'll receive your actual diploma in the robing room when you return your regalia. If you are not attending Commencement, your diploma will be mailed to you in late May or early June.
Photography
Vespers, Dinner, and the Commencement Ceremony will be photographed. All photos will be posted on Meadville Lombard's Facebook page. If you would like to get high-resolution files of the photos, please contact Tomo Hillbo, Director of Communications.
Commencement Fees
The commencement fee is $185 and will be billed by the Business Office through Populi. This fee helps to defray the costs of commencement activities, as well as graduate audits and diploma printing. The fee applies to all graduates, regardless of whether or not you attend commencement, and must be paid in full in order to receive a diploma.
Optional: Hood and Used Robe Purchase
If you would like to purchase your academic hood and/or used robes rather than renting it just for the ceremony, please contact Lynn for more details.
Frequently Asked Questions about Commencement
General
Does Meadville Lombard have recommendations for affordable hotels?
The Student Services Office has arranged for discounts at area hotels. Due to the busy weekend in Chicago, we encourage attendees to arrange for accommodations as soon as possible. Please see local accommodations and travel guide for more information.
Please note: this information is provided as a resource only. Meadville Lombard does not endorse or recommend any particular housing option.
If I have other questions not addressed in the FAQ, whom should I contact?
Please contact Lynn Penn-Hargrove at (312) 212-0672 or Kay Watson at (312) 212-0667.
Vespers
Who is in charge of Vespers?
The Senior Class arranges all aspects of Vespers with the help of the Rev. Julie Taylor, Senior Director of Contextual Ministry.
Where will Vespers be held?
Vespers will be held at Meadville Lombard at 610 S. Michigan Avenue, 6th Floor.
Commencement Dinner
Where is the Commencement Dinner?
Dinner will be held at the Chicago Firehouse Restaurant, 1401 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60605.
Who can attend this dinner? How many people can I bring?
Graduates can bring two guests. This is a ticketed, seated dinner. Graduating students will be given three complimentary tickets—one for the student and two for guests. There will be no additional tickets available.
Is there a dress code?
The dress code for the restaurant is business or business casual.
I or my guests are vegan/gluten-free/pescatarian. Will there be options for us?
We will do our best to accommodate all dietary restrictions; however, we must know about them ahead of time. If you didn't provide the dietary information for you and your guests on the Intent to Graduate
How should I get to Commencement Dinner after Vespers?
There will be a shuttle bus available from MLTS to the Chicago Fire House after Vespers.
Commencement
Where will Commencement be held?
Commencement will be held at First Unitarian Church of Chicago at 5650 S. Woodlawn Avenue.
Is there a dress code at Commencement?
There is no dress code. Commencement is being held at First Unitarian Church of Chicago, so please wear what you'd wear to church or a similarly formal event.
Will there be childcare available?
We welcome children at Commencement; however, Meadville Lombard cannot arrange for childcare.
Where do I pick up my robe?
Robes and hoods for graduates will be handed out on Sunday at First Unitarian Church, from 1:00 p.m. in the RE classrooms on the north side of the church. Graduates and those participating in the Commencement procession are invited to robe there.
When should I arrive at First Unitarian Church on Sunday?
We will take a class photo before the ceremony, promptly at 2:30 p.m. Please arrive at 1:00 p.m. to allow ample time to pick up your robe and get ready for the photo.
Is photography allowed at Commencement?
During the Ceremony, we ask that all flashes be turned off; however, you should feel free to take pictures. We will also have a photographer.
When do I get my diploma?
If you attend the Commencement Ceremony, you will receive an empty diploma holder during the ceremony. After the ceremony, you'll receive your actual diploma in the robing room when you return your regalia. If you are not attending Commencement, your diploma will be mailed to you in late May or early June.
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