Congrats, Grads!
Commencement Information for Parents and Families
Feb 04, 2026
Below is an a copy of the email sent to all parents on 1/21/2026 regarding May Commencement:
We hope this message finds you well. We are excited to share the details for the upcoming May 3rd commencement ceremony, where we will celebrate the achievements of your graduate. We understand how important this moment is for both you and your student, and we want to ensure that you have all the necessary information to make the day as memorable and enjoyable as possible.
Included in this email are important details about the ceremony, cap and gown ordering, frequently asked questions, and other celebrations to help you prepare for this memorable weekend! In the coming weeks, be sure to keep an eye on your inbox and our website for all the information you need to make your students' commencement experience unforgettable. Later this spring, you will receive a commencement weekend brochure in the mail with details on how to register for the commencement weekend events.
If your graduate plans to participate in the commencement ceremony, please review the steps below:
- Order Deadline: All online cap and gown orders must be placed by Friday, March 13th. Orders placed after this date must be picked up at the Campus Store and may incur a late fee.
- How to Order: Visit the Herff Jones website to select your cap, gown, and tassel or graduate package. Additional items such as announcements, frames, and class rings are available on the website.
- Payment: Payment for your cap and gown is required at the time of purchase. Make sure to complete all necessary steps before submitting your order.
- Pick-Up and Distribution: Cap and gown orders will be available for pick-up at Countdown to Commencement on April 14th between 3-6pm in the Wentz Concert Hall Lobby. If you’re unable to pick it up in person that day, please check with the Campus Store for alternative options.
Please don’t delay in placing your order – we want every graduate to look their best on this memorable day!
Order a Commemorative Brick!
Purchase a brick with a custom engraved message that will be placed in a location of your choosing throughout campus. There is no better way for your grad to celebrate their time at North Central!
Commencement Schedule
Friday, May 1
- 10:00am-12:00pm: Graduate Portraits - Old Main Lawn
- 2:30pm: College Scholars Cording Ceremony & Reception - Meiley Swallow Theatre
- 4:30-5:30pm: Cardinal First Pinning Ceremony - Wentz Concert Hall
- 5:30-6:45pm: President's Reception - Wentz Concert Hall & Madden Lobby
- 7:00-8:15pm: MANDATORY Rehearsal for students - Wilde Res/Rec Center
Saturday, May 2
- 9:00-10am: Master of Occupational Therapy Pinning Ceremony - Wentz Concert Hall
- 1:30-2:30pm: Doctor of Physical Therapy Recognition Ceremony - Wentz Concert Hall
Sunday, May 3
- 7:30-9:00am: Commencement Breakfast - Kaufman Dining Hall
- 8:00-8:30am: Baccalaureate - Koten Chapel
- 10:00am Commencement Ceremony - Wilde Residence Hall/Recreation Center
- 8:30am: Doors open for Commencement Ceremony
- 9:00am: Graduate Line Up - Merner Field House
- 9:40am: Processional
Visit the Commencement webpage for updates regarding the events schedule and more!
We look forward to celebrating your student's achievements and marking this significant milestone in their academic career. For your convenience, there is a frequently asked questions page on our commencement website where you can find answers to important questions regarding the weekend schedule and ceremony. If you are unable to find what you’re looking for, please don't hesitate to contact us at commencement@noctrl.edu.
Thank you for your support and for being a part of this memorable occasion.
Warm regards,
Mary Reynolds
Chief Campus Events Officer