Frequently Asked Questions
Commencement 2026 is scheduled for Saturday, May 2, 10:00 a.m. at Salem Stadium at 1008 Texas Street, Salem, VA. Tickets are NOT needed. (Severe inclement weather location: Salem Civic Center at the same location--no tickets required there, either)
When should families plan to be on campus for the events?
Friday, May 1: Department receptions will likely be held on Friday from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Please have your graduate check with individual department as to the time of the reception as we get closer to commencement weekend. Baccalaureate on Friday afternoon is planned for the Cregger Center Arena (about an hour in length).
Saturday, May 2: Commencement begins at 10:00 a.m.
What is Baccalaureate?
Baccalaureate is a service of blessing led by Chaplain Chris Bowen and members of the campus community.
The Commencement activities begin on Friday at 4:00 p.m., the day before commencement, with the Baccalaureate ceremony in the Cregger Center Arena (it's about an hour in length). This celebratory event is an important part of Commencement exercises and is an occasion for thanksgiving as our students complete their educational program.
Baccalaureate begins with an academic procession of faculty and administrators. The worship service, lasting about one hour, includes music, prayers and readings. The Rev. Christopher M. Bowen, Dean of the Chapel, will be the speaker.
What happens if there is severe inclement weather?
In the event of severe inclement weather conditions, the Commencement exercises will be moved to inside the Salem Civic Center, 1001 Roanoke Boulevard, Salem.
Any decision of a move indoors to the Salem Civic Center will be made in the morning on Saturday, May 2 and communicated via Maroon Alerts, and will be posted on the Roanoke College website.
Commencement will most likely be held outdoors on Saturday; we do monitor the ever-changing weather forecast, but we suggest you prepare for what best suits your family’s needs. Ponchos are probably a better choice, as umbrellas produce run-off water to guests around you and may impede others’ view of the ceremony.
When will I receive my diploma?
On Commencement Day, graduates will receive a Maroon tube with a letter from President Shushok and other information when they cross the stage to be recognized. We will still certify and recognize Latin honors, valedictorians, and salutatorians.
Your diploma will be mailed to you approximately 6-8 weeks after Commencement. Diplomas are mailed to the home address on record in Self Service. Confirmation emails will be sent to each graduate when a diploma is shipped.
In April, an email will be sent by the registrar’s office to confirm your diploma name, degree information and mailing address. To verify your mailing address at any time, check your user profile in Self Service. To update your mailing address, contact the registrar’s office at registrar@roanoke.edu.
When does the Commencement ceremony end?
In previous years, the end time was between 12:30 – 1:00 p.m., depending on the number of speakers and number of graduates.
Where can I book lodging?
A list of loding options across the area is available from the regional tourism bureau, Visit Virginia's Blue Ridge.
Are tickets needed for Baccalaureate on Friday and/or Commencement on Saturday?
No tickets are required for either Baccalaureate on Friday afternoon in the Cregger Center or Commencement on Saturday morning at Salem Stadium (or at the Salem Civic Center, in the event of severe inclement weather).
When and where do graduates get their caps and gowns?
Academic Attire: Information will be posted to order the regalia from Oak Hall, this usually happens in January and February. If you have questions, please contact commencement@roanoke.edu.
If a graduate is to receive Latin honors, those cords will be available through the Registrar's Office. For other cords and stoles, graduates should contact the advisors for honor societies and campus organizations to which they belong.
My name is sometimes mispronounced. How can I let someone know the proper pronunciation?
Seniors, you will receive an email in mid-April to access a system so you can give us the pronunciation of your name (look for the email to come from "commencement@roanoke.edu" to your Roanoke College email):
As 2026 Commencement approaches, we would like to say congratulations! We are excited for you in this accomplishment and want to verify that we pronounce your name correctly, as you walk across the stage. Please record a video saying your first, middle, and last name clearly (please state your name twice), so that we can review before Commencement.
Are wheelchairs available?
We ask that you access the request form at Wheelchair Request Form no later than April 15 to reserve a wheelchair. After this date, it may not be possible for us to have a wheelchair on site.
How will photos of graduates be taken?
Photo Specialties will serve as Roanoke College's official photographer. A photographer will be at the ceremony to take a photograph of each graduate as President Shushok shakes their hand, and a second photo will be made after the graduate exits the stage at a Roanoke College backdrop.
How can I view and purchase photos?
An email will be sent out about a week after commencement with the subject line from "notifications@photospecialties.com" to your roanoke.edu email with instructions on how to view your proofs (including a private password--and please check your clutter/junk folder if you don't see the email from the photographer in your inbox). At this point, you may order online at www.seemygraduate.com. If you do not receive this notification, please contact Photo Specialties directly at info@photospecialties.com or call 919-967-9576.