This special event celebrates all Indiana University and Purdue University School of Science graduates. Every graduate will walk across the stage and have their name announced — it’s your moment to shine!
Saturday, May 16, 2026
Student Recognition Celebration
8:45 – 9:15 a.m.
Check-in (for graduates)
9:45 a.m.
Processional
10 a.m.
Program begins
Indiana Convention Center
Sagamore Ballroom
100 S. Capital Avenue
Indianapolis, Indiana
- Use Maryland Street entrance 5 or 6
- See parking options »
Congratulations on your achievement! You’ve earned this celebration.
What to expect during the celebration
- Each graduate will be individually recognized as they cross the stage.
- Master’s and Ph.D. students (IU and Purdue) will be hooded during the ceremony. Hooding will be done by your department chair/director or faculty advisor/mentor.
- Diploma covers are not presented at the school celebration.
It’s a meaningful tradition and a great photo opportunity!
Check-in details
Use Maryland Street entrance 5 or 6. Arrive no later than 9:30 a.m. so you can register and line up on time.
When you arrive at the registration table:
- You'll receive a name card.
- You can write a phonetic spelling of your name on the card to help with pronunciation.
- Keep this card with you as you line up.
- Hand it to the person at the podium when you walk across the stage.
Make sure you don’t lose it! You’ll need it when your name is announced.
What to wear
A quick breakdown of attire expectations:
- Dress in business or professional attire.
- In accordance with university policy, gowns should not be worn. Academic regalia should only be worn at your university's main commencement ceremony.
- You may wear your cap and tassel, along with any earned cords.
- Cap decoration is encouraged!
Exceptions
Master’s students who are being hooded may wear academic regalia.
School of Science Purdue graduates can also wear their Purdue University academic regalia at the school celebration.
Guests
There is no limit to the number of guests you can bring to the school celebration. It can become standing room only, so inform guests to arrive early.
Accessibility and accommodations for you and your guests
Contact Joseph Thompson at jlthomp@iu.edu as early as possible, and no later than April 10, 2026.
RSVP
Please RSVP by April 10, 2026. We appreciate your response. It helps us prepare!
Questions
- Students: Contact Darryl Newsom at danewsom@iu.edu.
- Faculty and staff: Contact Joseph Thompson at jlthomp@iu.edu.
Official commencement exercises are conducted through the IU Indianapolis ceremony for IU graduates and Purdue University West Lafayette ceremony for Purdue graduates.