Commencement 2024 FAQ
For Graduates and Guests
- If the ceremony had to move, why not to the Field House?
We initially looked at the Lamb-Miller Field House as an alternative location, but it proved unworkable. For months, we told seniors they could bring as many people as they would like to the event because we planned on not having any space constraints. As large as it is, the field house is still not able to accommodate all of our expected visitors, meaning that some family members and friends of graduates would have had to watch the event on a screen in an overflow room. Given its age and condition, the building also poses a vast number of logistical challenges for hosting a major event. - Where is the Mann Center, and how will I get there?
The Mann Center is an open-air, covered venue located in Philadelphia’s Fairmount Park, about 10 miles from campus. The College will run buses for students and their families, as well as staff and faculty members, who need rides from Field House Lane to the facility and back on Sunday, May 26. All graduates must depart from campus on College-provided transportation at 8 a.m. from Field House Lane to the Mann Center and must bring their OneCard to board the buses.Buses for families will begin leaving at 8:30 a.m. The last bus for families will leave campus at 9:45 a.m. - Why do I need Commencement tickets? Where and when will I get them?
Seating is still unlimited, but family members and guests will need tickets to enter the venue. Graduates will need to use their OneCard to pick up Commencement tickets for family and guests in the LPAC lobby after Friday's rehearsal. Dean Miller will reach out to students who have already indicated they are not able to attend rehearsal.
Graduates and staff and faculty with College ID do not need tickets to enter the venue. - Where is rehearsal? Are there other changes to Commencement Weekend events?
Rehearsal will take place at the Lang Performing Arts Center. Last Collection, Baccalaureate, department and honor society receptions, and fireworks will take place as planned. - How do I request seating/other arrangements for special accommodations?
Please contact ADA Manager Susan Smythe at ssmythe1@swarthmore.edu. - Where and when will faculty robe and line up to process?
The Mann Center’s green room. - When will Mann Center doors open to the public?
9 a.m. - When will the ceremony begin?
The ceremony will still start at 11 a.m. - Are volunteers still needed? What role will they have?
Volunteers are welcome, and those who have already signed up will receive more information about their roles soon. - Can alumni attend the ceremony?
Yes, please contact commencement@swarthmore.edu for tickets. - Where can I watch the livestream?
The College’s Commencement website will host a livestream, as will the College’s Youtube channel. - Will seniors still get roses?
Yes! They will be available at the Mann Center. - If the encampment ended today, could Commencement move back to Parrish Beach?
No, given the complexity of the arrangements, we are past the point when we could make a change to the location.
More about the Mann Center
- What can I bring inside the Mann Center?
As visitors, we need to follow the venue’s rules for what is and is not allowed inside. Bags must be 12"x6"x12" or smaller and are subject to search. A list of permitted and prohibited items can be found on the Mann Center’s website. - What food and beverages will be available?
Refreshments will be available before the ceremony, followed by a reception open to everyone. - What is the parking situation?
The Mann Center has ample free parking. The venue often relies on Philadelphia police officers to manage traffic during events. Please see the Mann Center site for more detailed parking and transportation information, including maps and mass-transit options.
ADA parking is available directly in front of the main entrance to the venue. Other ADA requests should be directed to Susan Smythe at ssmythe1@swarthmore.edu.
