Commencement

Commencement planning routinely includes many arrangements to assure access for people with a range of disabilities to the ceremony and associated events over the course of the weekend.

Designated Seating

A designated seating section is reserved for people with mobility disabilities, and a separate section is set aside for those needing to use a sign language interpreter.

Tickets are Required

You must request a ticket to be seated in these designated areas. Tickets are typically issued for one person with a disability and one guest. The entire event is amplified so that you will be able to hear the speakers from any location.

Sign Language Interpreters

Persons needing sign language interpreters are asked to submit a specific request in advance so that the interpreters can be selected to meet your specific communication needs. Contact our sign language interpreter for more information.

Parking & Accessibility

Commencement attendees may drive up to the entrance to graduation to drop off disabled passengers. Drivers with disabilities may use the spaces available across campus and request transportation to the Commencement site via an accessible van by calling (413) 282-2400.

Please allow an hour or more to ensure that you are transported and can be seated before Commencement begins.

Additional Questions

If you have additional questions about access to Commencement, please contact college relations at (413) 585-2170 (voice) or contact disability services at (413) 585-2071 (voice, TTY, TDD).