Dear Parents and Family Members of the Class of 2024,

Below you will find today’s email to the class members, with preliminary information that will be helpful in planning for commencement.*

Here, we highlight a few points about the weekend of particular interest to families/guests.

  • All events are optional for parents and families.
  • The Commencement page currently outlines the main events of the weekend, helpful information to help guests plan their visit, and an overview of Colgate’s commencement traditions. More details will be forthcoming during the spring semester.
  • The commencement ceremony runs for approximately 2½ hours.
  • There is no dress code. Attendees are encouraged to consider the weather and wear what is comfortable for them.

 

We will email families throughout the spring semester when details become available.

*To participate in commencement, students must meet specific eligibility requirements outlined on the Academic Regulations page.

Lodging

On-Campus Housing

Colgate will offer a limited number of residence hall rooms to families, on a first-come, first-served basis for a modest cost. Details and reservations will be available early in the spring semester.

Regional Accommodations

The Hotels & Accommodations page offers information on other lodging options in the region.

Graduation Items at the Colgate Bookstore

Order online gifts for your graduate, diploma frames, and more.

Order items

Graduation Announcements

Order graduation announcements on Colgate University’s page at Jostens.

 

Visit colgate.edu/commencement for more information, or email commencement@colgate.edu with questions.

We look forward to celebrating your student’s accomplishments in May!

Get Ready, Class of 2024 

Commencement Weekend is May 17–19, 2024. This email outlines what to expect in the coming months and highlights some important dates for your calendar. Keep it handy — and keep an eye on your inbox next semester for additional messages outlining the action steps you will need to take care of and for details regarding the weekend. 

Please note that, in order to participate in the 2024 commencement ceremony, students must meet specific eligibility requirements as outlined on the Academic Regulations page.

Commencement Website

The commencement website will be updated whenever new information becomes available.

Commencement Checklist

Your one-stop spot to complete your necessary To-Dos before graduation will be online at colgate.edu/commencement early in the spring semester.

Mark your calendar

Senior Wine Tasting

Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023 | 6–7:30 p.m. | Hall of Presidents
Join your hosts, President Brian W. Casey and the 2023–24 Presidential Ambassadors, for this traditional event. 

RSVP

Class of 2024 Graduation Fair

Tuesday, February 6, 2024 | 10:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. | Hall of Presidents
The Graduation Fair is your chance to learn about how commencement weekend works and everything you need to know to get ready. Learn about guest information (on-campus housing option, inclement weather ceremony tickets, accessibility accommodations); get your Senior Checklist questions answered and some of your To-Dos completed (like ordering your cap and gown); and more.

Senior Night at Frank

April 25, 2024 | Frank Dining Hall
The class will gather for dinner with President Casey.

Commencement Ceremony

Sunday, May 19, 2024 | 10:30 a.m.| Andy Kerr Stadium*
The ceremony runs for approximately 2½ hours. It will be livestreamed for those unable to attend in person.
*Sanford Field House, in case of inclement weather.

Residence Halls close

Sunday, May 19, 2024 | 5:00 p.m. | All seniors and guests must be moved out of their residence hall space by this time.

Questions?

Commencement@colgate.edu