Commencement 2008
Brown's 240th Commencement ceremony is scheduled for Sunday, May 25, 2008. The ceremony takes place outdoors on Brown's historic College Green in order to accommodate the more than 15,000 friends and family members who attend.
The ceremony begins at 9:45 a.m. when graduating seniors process through the Van Wickle Gates down the hill to the First Baptist Church in America, where the senior ceremony is held. Family and friends may watch the proceedings on large video screens on the College Green. The University ceremony begins at approximately 12:45 p.m. College Green ceremonies are videocast in Salomon Center, Sayles Hall, and the Pizzitola Center. Real-time captioning of Commencement ceremonies is provided on the video simulcast. Live audio casts of the Ceremony will be in Manning Chapel and Meehan Auditorium.
Separate diploma ceremonies for each academic department follow the main ceremony. Held under cover if the weather is bad, these ceremonies provide a more intimate atmosphere for families and seniors.
Academic regalia (cap and gown) should be worn for Commencement ceremonies. Students may purchase academic regalia at the Brown Bookstore after May 1.
Individuals with disabilities who require accommodations for any event during Commencement weekend should contact the Office of University Events as far in advance as possible. Please call 401 863-2108 during normal business hours.