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Smiling graduating students

Commencement

Saturday / May 6, 2023
Mass
9:30 AM
Ceremony
2:00 PM
Baccalaureate Mass: Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception
Allen County War Memorial Coliseum / Fort Wayne, Indiana

Congratulations Class of 2023!

You’ve worked hard and experienced the many highs and lows of earning a college degree. Now you take more steps along God’s path. This day isn’t simply the end of your studies. Commencement marks the beginning of the next chapter of your life’s journey. May this celebration of your remarkable achievement be rich with God’s blessings for you and your family.

Students

Graduating Students

Resources for Students

Have Questions?

Office of Academic Affairs
260.399.8069

Baccalaureate Mass

Graduates and their families and friends, regardless of religion, are warmly welcomed and highly encouraged to participate in this service of thanksgiving at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception on the same day as commencement at 9:30 a.m.

all are welcome

Caps, Gowns, & Announcements

You can order caps, gowns, tassels and personalized commencement announcements from Jostens.

what you need to know

Diplomas

The Registrar’s Office will distribute diplomas either through pick-up at the Registrar’s Office, Room 207, Pope John Paul II Center, or a request to have it mailed. Students with questions may contact the Registrar’s Office at 260-399-8061 or [email protected]

Commencement Cerememony

Baccalaureate Mass and Commencement

 The Baccalaureate Mass is an integral part of Graduation Day. Graduating students should arrive in their gowns and caps by 9 a.m. in the Cathedral Center, which is next to the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, for the Academic Procession. Mass begins at 9:30 a.m. and will last approximately an hour. This provides ample time for graduates and their guests to enjoy lunch before arriving at the Memorial Coliseum for the 2 p.m. Commencement Ceremony. Graduates must arrive between 12:30 and 1:30 p.m. for check-in and placement in the Academic Procession.
Faculty with Graduating Student

Faculty and Staff

 USF faculty and staff, regardless of religion, are highly encouraged to participate in the Baccalaureate Mass at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception at 9:30 a.m. Faculty should arrive by 9 a.m. at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. Faculty who are participating in the Commencement Ceremony need to arrive at the Allen County War Memorial Coliseum by 12:45 p.m.
Family Cheering for Their Graduate

Family & Guests

 We encourage families and friends of our graduates to take part in their loved ones’ important day. Starting with the Baccalaureate Mass at 9:30 a.m. through the Commencement Ceremony at 2 p.m., this is an entire Graduation Day of celebration and recognition of a remarkable milestone in your loved ones’ lives. At the Allen County War Memorial Coliseum, be sure to look for the USF photo area in the Rotunda where you may take pictures with your graduate in front of a University of Saint Francis drape.
Faculty processional during commencement

Traditions, Honors & Recognition

 Wondering what those different cord colors mean? What is an Honorary degree and how does one become eligible for one? Learn more about special honors and recognition that takes place during Commencement.

Need Assistance?

If you or someone in your party will need special assistance during graduation day activities, either at Baccalaureate Mass or Commencement, please let us know. We’ll do everything we can to make this day as enjoyable and comfortable for everyone in attendance. Please contact us at 260.399.8069 to let us know how we can help.

Resources

If you’re coming to Fort Wayne from out of town, here are some resources that may be helpful to find hotels, restaurants or other things to do while you’re here!