You can find previous announcements and emails you may have missed below.

• Wednesday, May 13, 2026

  From: Connie Stanley (cstanley@colum.edu)
  Sent: Wednesday, May 13, 2026 6:01 PM
  Subject:🎓 A Final Note: Instructions for Graduates

  ---

  Hey Graduates,
  
  Below are a few reminders for the big weekend!

  REGISTER NOW FOR MANIFEST

  You can pick up your wristband for Manifest at the Student Center on Friday from 4-8pm, or at one of the check-in locations on this map. Register now to secure your spot.

   

  COMMENCEMENT DAY REMINDERS 

  If you missed Final Grad Expo, please plan to arrive 75 minutes prior to your ceremony.
  
  At the UIC Credit Union 1 Arena (Gate #2), you will be able to:

  • Pick up guest tickets (for graduates who have not yet picked up their original 7 tickets)
  • Pick up your name card
  • Pick up your cap and gown
  • Pick up honors tassels and stoles

  
  

  ---

  Still have questions? 

  Check out the Commencement FAQs for info on your ceremony date, time, location, and more.

  Email commencement@colum.edu.
• Friday, May 8, 2026

  From: Connie Stanley (cstanley@colum.edu)
  Sent: Friday, May 8, 2026 11:34 AM
  Subject: 🎓 MUST READ: Final Graduation Reminders

  Hey Graduates,
  
  Commencement Weekend is in one week!
  There are three final events for you to attend: 

  1. That’s A Wrap! Final Grad Expo
  All graduates MUST attend That’s A Wrap! Final Grad Expo to pick up your name card for your ceremony.

  This is your final opportunity to receive important commencement info, ask questions, pick up materials, and make sure you’re ready for the big day. You can aslo grab your Manifest T-Shirt and decorate your cap. If you did not pick up your regalia, you can do so at this event. Additional tickets (up to two per student) will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.

  

  2. The President’s Student Appreciation Brunch

  If you're on campus on Monday, take a moment to celebrate the end of the semester, connect with fellow students, and enjoy a complimentary brunch with President Shantay N. Bolton and members of the administration before Commencement festivities begin.
  
  President’s Student Appreciation Brunch
  Monday, May 11
  12:30 PM – 2:00 PM
  Student Center, 1st Floor
  RSVP HERE

  

  3. Register NOW to Attend Manifest!

  You can pick up your wristband for Manifest at the Student Center on Friday.
  From live performances and fashion showcases to exhibitions, films, and interactive experiences, Manifest transforms campus into a vibrant showcase of student talent.
  Register now to secure your spot. RSVP HERE!

  We look forward to celebrating you all week long!

  Best,
  Student Affairs

  ---

  Still have questions? 

  Check out the Commencement FAQs for info on your ceremony date, time, location, and more.

  Email commencement@colum.edu.
• Tuesday, April 28, 2026

  From: Connie Stanley (cstanley@colum.edu)
  Sent: Tuesday, April 28, 2026 9:01 AM
  Subject: 🎓 Don't Miss "That's A Wrap" Final Grad Expo

  

  Hey Graduates,

  As we get closer to Commencement, we invite you to attend That’s A Wrap: Final Grad Expo—your last opportunity to take care of any remaining graduation items and get fully prepared. 

  That’s A Wrap: Final Grad Expo
  Tuesday, May 12 & Wednesday, May 13
  10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  Student Center, 1st FL

  If you did not pick up your cap and gown, you can do so at this event. Please note that regalia will not be available at the bookstore, so be sure to plan accordingly.

  Need Extra Tickets?

  A limited number of additional tickets (up to two per student) will be available at this event on a first-come, first-served basis. Extra tickets will not be given out prior to this event.

  ---

  TICKET DISTRIBUTION

  Ticket Distribution 📅
  Dates: April 14 – May 7
  Days: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays
  Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
  Location: Student Life Office – 754 S. Wabash, 3rd Floor
  (Make a right when you exit the elevators)

  No longer a student?
  If you’ve completed your final semester and are no longer taking classes, simply let the Student Center guard know you’re there to pick up your tickets, and you’ll be allowed to enter the building.

  Can’t make it to campus?
  You may have a trusted friend or family member pick up your tickets on your behalf. Be sure to send them with a signed copy of the Proxy Pick Up Form

  ---

  NEED A LAWN SIGN?

  We’re also excited to share a lawn sign template that you can use to celebrate your graduation with family and friends. Feel free to download and print your own sign using the attachment.

  

  ---

  Still have questions? 

  Check out the Commencement FAQs for info on your ceremony date, time, location, and more.

  Email commencement@colum.edu.
• Thursday, April 16, 2026

  From: Connie Stanley (cstanley@colum.edu)
  Date: 4/16/2026 3:37:59 PM
  Subject: 🎓 Last Chance to Order Cap & Gown

  Hi Graduates,

  The Herff Jones portal to order your cap and gown is now back up and running.

  Click here to order. To ensure you still have time to place your order, the deadline has been extended to Monday, April 20*. If you do not place your order by this date, you will need to pick up a spare robe at That’s a Wrap: Final Grad Expo on May 12 or 13 (10:00 AM – 6:00 PM) in the Student Center.

  Thank you for your patience.

  Best,
  Connie

  *corrected month from May to April (3.46pm)

  ---

  Still have questions? 

  Check out the Commencement FAQs for info on your ceremony date, time, location, and more. 
• Tuesday, April 14, 2026

  From: Connie Stanley (cstanley@colum.edu)
  Date: 4/14/2026 10:57:35 AM
  Subject: 🎓 Last Day to Order Your Cap and Gown!

  Hey Grad,

  If you are receiving this email, you are on the Registrar’s official list of graduating students and do not need to submit a graduation application. Please note that today is the final day to order your cap and gown.

  ---

  LAST DAY TO ORDER CAP & GOWN

  HURRY! CLICK THIS LINK TO ORDER YOUR CAP & GOWN. 
  It’s free and will ship directly to your preferred address. 
  Follow the instructions on this pdf for help. 

  ---

  TICKET DISTRIBUTION BEGINS TODAY

  Ticket Distribution 📅
  Dates: Tuesday, April 14 – Thursday, May 7
  Days: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays
  Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

  Location: Student Life Office – 754 S. Wabash, 3rd Floor
  (Make a right when you exit the elevators)

  No longer a student?
  If you’ve completed your final semester and are no longer taking classes, simply let the Student Center guard know you’re there to pick up your tickets, and you’ll be allowed to enter the building. Again, if you are receiving this email, you are on the Registrar’s official list of graduating students and do not need to submit a graduation application.

  Can’t make it to campus?
  You may have a trusted friend or family member pick up your tickets on your behalf. Be sure to send them with a signed copy of the Proxy Pick Up Form.

  Please plan to pick up your tickets as soon as possible to ensure everything is in place for your big day.

  ---

  SAVE THE DATE: THAT'S A WRAP FINAL GRAD EXPO

  ‘That’s a Wrap!’ Final Grad Expo 
  When: Tuesday and Wednesday, May 12^th and 13^th, 10am–6pm

  Where: The Student Center, 754 S. Wabash

  This event is for all graduates and a second opportunity for those who were unable to attend Grad Expo in April. You will be able to sit for formal graduation photographs or head shots, sign up for Alumni Association membership, etc.  Be sure to pick up your Name Card that will be read as you cross the stage at your ceremony. Don’t forget to decorate your cap in the Makerspace!

  ---

  TAKE THE GRADUATING STUDENT SURVEY

  Before you pick up your graduation tickets, take a few minutes to complete the Graduating Student Survey. Students who complete it and show a screenshot to pick up their tickets—so get it done in advance and save yourself time tomorrow.

   

  ---

  That's all the update's we have for now.

  Still have questions? 

  Check out the Commencement FAQs for info on your ceremony date, time, location, and more. 
• Friday, April 3, 2026
  From: Connie Stanley (cstanley@colum.edu)
  Date: 4/3/2026 10:00:00 AM
  Subject: 🎓 Missed Grad Expo? Here's How to Pick Up Your Tickets

  ---

  

   

  Hey Grad,

  If you weren’t able to attend Grad Expo, no worries—you can still pick up your Commencement tickets. See details below.

  ---

  TICKET DISTRIBUTION

  Ticket Distribution 📅
  Dates: Tuesday, April 14 – Thursday, May 7
  Days: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays
  Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

  Location: Student Life Office – 754 S. Wabash, 3rd Floor
  (Make a right when you exit the elevators)

  No longer a student?
  If you’ve completed your final semester and are no longer taking classes, simply let the Student Center guard know you’re there to pick up your tickets, and you’ll be allowed to enter the building.

  Can’t make it to campus?
  You may have a trusted friend or family member pick up your tickets on your behalf. Be sure to send them with a signed copy of the Proxy Pick Up Form.

  Please plan to pick up your tickets as soon as possible to ensure everything is in place for your big day.

  We’re excited to celebrate you soon!

  ---

  TAKE THE GRADUATING STUDENT SURVEY

  Before you pick up your graduation tickets, take a few minutes to complete the Graduating Student Survey. Students who complete it and show a screenshot to pick up their tickets—so get it done in advance and save yourself time tomorrow.

  

  ---

  That's all the update's we have for now.

  Still have questions? 

  Check out the Commencement FAQs for info on your ceremony date, time, location, and more. 

  ---

• Tuesday, March 31, 2026

  From: Connie Stanley (cstanley@colum.edu)
  Date: 3/31/2026 5:20:37 PM
  Subject: 🎓 See You at Grad Expo Tomorrow

  

  Hey Grad,

  We’re looking forward to seeing you at Grad Expo tomorrow (or Thursday)! 🎓
  Here are a few quick tips to help make your experience as smooth as possible.

  ---

  GET READY FOR GRAD EXPO

  Stop by Grad Expo to get everything squared away before Commencement. Think of it as your graduation prep checkpoint so nothing catches you by surprise later. 
  
  Drop in which ever date works best for you and stay as long as you'd like. 

  📅 Wednesday, April 1 | 10 AM – 3 PM
  📅 Thursday, April 2 | 3 PM – 6 PM
  STUDENT CENTER, 1st FLOOR
  
  ✔ Pick up your 7 tickets!
  ✔ Double-check your graduation audit
  ✔ Get tips on financial planning after graduation
  ✔ Order graduation memorabilia
  ✔ Learn what to expect at this year’s Manifest
  ✔ Get the latest details about Commencement 2026
  ✔ Take your graduation portraits (Sit for your graduation photos at no cost. Afterward, you’ll get access to your pictures and can decide later if you want to purchase them. Totally optional.)
  

  ---

  TAKE THE GRADUATING STUDENT SURVEY

  Before you pick up your graduation tickets, take a few minutes to complete the Graduating Student Survey. Students who complete it and show a screenshot at Grad Expo can pick up their tickets—so get it done in advance and save yourself time tomorrow.

  

  ---

  That's all the update's we have for now.

  Still have questions? 

  Check out the Commencement FAQs for info on your ceremony date, time, location, and more. 

  ---

• Tuesday, March 31, 2026 (SiLA)

  From: Stanley, Connie <cstanley@colum.edu>
  Sent: Tuesday, March 31, 2026 7:50 PM
  Subject: Everything You Need to Know About Graduation

  Hi SiLA Graduates,

  My name is Connie Stanley, and I’m part of the team supporting Commencement. I’m reaching out to share important details and next steps. Please read this email in full. Most importantly, you haven’t missed anything. You’re right on track. I’m here as a resource, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.

  Columbia College Chicago will host two in-person Commencement ceremonies on Sunday, May 17, 2026, at the Credit Union 1 Arena (525 S. Racine Ave., Chicago, IL).

  All graduates will receive 7 general admission guest tickets. If you plan to participate, continue monitoring your Columbia email, the Commencement website, and the All Things Commencement Engage group for updates.

  2026 Commencement Ceremony Schedule Sunday, May 17, 2026
  Morning Ceremony - 11:00am	Afternoon Ceremony - 4:30pm
  Business and Entrepreneurship Communication and Culture Film and Television Fashion	Theatre and Dance Audio and Music Design Visual Arts

  ---

  What You Need to Do

  1. Order Your Cap & Gown (by April 13)
     Order through Herff Jones. It’s free and ships to your preferred address.
     If you don’t order one, a spare will be available on-site.
  2. Plan for Ticket Pickup (7 guest tickets)
     Ask a trusted friend or family member to pick up your tickets on your behalf.

  
  

  Be sure to send them with a signed copy of this Proxy Pick Up Form, along with a copy of your Columbia ID.

  Ticket Distribution Details:
  April 14 – May 7
  10 AM – 4 PM
  754 S. Wabash, 3rd Floor Student Life Office (right off the elevators)
  Note: No distribution on Mondays or Fridays; only Tuesday thru Thursday

  Can’t send someone?
  You can pick up your tickets 1 hour before your ceremony at UIC Credit Union Arena, Door #2.

  ---

  Stay on Track for Graduation

  We strongly recommend checking in with the following offices before graduation. Visit the Graduation Checklist for more info:

  • College Advising: Confirm your graduation audit
  • School of Graduate Studies: Explore grad school options
  • Alumni Relations: Stay connected after graduation
  • Career Center: Prepare for your next steps
  • Columbia Central: Review your financial standing
  • Library: Learn about post-grad access
  • Manifest: Get details about this year’s Manifest

  ---

  Important Event: Final Grad Expo

  “That’s a Wrap!” – Final Grad Expo

  When: May 12–13, 10 AM – 6 PM
  Where: Student Center, 754 S. Wabash

  • Take graduation photos or headshots
  • Join the Alumni Association
  • Pick up your Name Card (required to cross the stage)
  • Decorate your cap in the Makerspace

    ---

  🎉 Commencement Day Reminders

  1. Arrive 1 hour before your ceremony
  2. Bring your Name Card (you’ll receive this at That’s A Wrap Final Grad Expo)
  3. Wear comfortable shoes (you’ll walk down a steep ramp)
  4. Review the FAQs for parking and entry guidelines including prohibited items

  ---

  Graduation Items (Stoles, Cords, Honors)

  You or a family member can pick up stoles, cords, or tassels at That’s A Wrap Final Grad Expo (May 12–13). Students graduating with honors (3.75+ GPA) will receive a gold tassel.

  ---

  📩 Questions?

  Email commencement@colum.edu and our team will respond promptly.
  You can also review FAQs here: https://students.colum.edu/commencement/faqs

  We’re excited to celebrate you. See you at Commencement!

  Best,

  Connie Stanley
  Asst. Dean of Student Affairs Operations & Communications
  Columbia College Chicago
  623 S. Wabash 301E | 312-369-7448
  Pronouns: she/her/hers

• Monday, March 30, 2026

  From: Connie Stanley (cstanley@colum.edu)
  Date: 3/30/2026 11:51:11 AM
  Subject: 🎓 Don't Forget: This Week Is Grad Expo

  

   

  Good morning Graduate,

  🎓 This is your reminder to attend this week's Grad Expo. Check out the details below. 

  ---

  GET READY FOR GRAD EXPO

  Stop by Grad Expo to get everything squared away before Commencement. Think of it as your graduation prep checkpoint so nothing catches you by surprise later. Drop in which ever date works best for you and stay as long as you'd like. Here’s what you can take care of in one stop:

  📅 Wednesday, April 1 | 10 AM – 3 PM
  📅 Thursday, April 2 | 3 PM – 6 PM
  STUDENT CENTER, 1st FLOOR
  
  ✔ Pick up your 7 tickets!
  ✔ Double-check your graduation audit
  ✔ Get tips on financial planning after graduation
  ✔ Order graduation memorabilia
  ✔ Learn what to expect at this year’s Manifest
  ✔ Get the latest details about Commencement 2026
  ✔ Take your graduation portraits (Sit for your graduation photos at no cost. Afterward, you’ll get access to your pictures and can decide later if you want to purchase them. Totally optional.)

  ---

  APPLY FOR THE COMMENCEMENT COMPETITIONS

  Today is the last day to apply for the Commencement Student Speaker and Photography competitions. Click here for more info and to apply.

  

  ---

  APPLY FOR THE POETRY COMPETITION

  As you prepare to cross the stage, reflect on the journey that brought you here. Submit your poem for a chance to have your voice represent the Class of 2026.
  The winning poet will be awarded $1,000. 
  Click here for more info and to apply.  

  

  ---

  That's all the update's we have for now.

  Still have questions? 

  Check out the Commencement FAQs for info on your ceremony date, time, location, and more. 

  ---

• Monday, March 16, 2026

  From: Connie Stanley (cstanley@colum.edu)
  Date: 3/16/2026 10:41:36 AM
  Subject: 🎓 Before You Check Out for Spring Break... Read This

  

  Hello Graduate,

  Before you mentally check out and head into spring break mode, we still have a little unfinished graduation business to take care of. Below are your latest Commencement reminders. 🎓

  ---

  GET READY FOR GRAD EXPO

  Stop by Grad Expo to get everything squared away before Commencement. Think of it as your graduation prep checkpoint so nothing catches you by surprise later. 

  📅 Wednesday, April 1 | 10 AM – 3 PM
  📅 Thursday, April 2 | 3 PM – 6 PM

  Drop in which ever date works best for you and stay as long as you'd like.

  Here’s what you can take care of in one stop:
  
  ✔ Pick up your 7 tickets!

  ✔ Double-check your graduation audit
  ✔ Get tips on financial planning after graduation
  ✔ Order graduation memorabilia
  ✔ Learn what to expect at this year’s Manifest
  ✔ Get the latest details about Commencement 2026
  ✔ Take your graduation portraits (Sit for your graduation photos at no cost. Afterward, you’ll get access to your pictures and can decide later if you want to purchase them. Totally optional.)

  ---

  ORDER YOUR CAP & GOWN

  At this point, I'm begging you to order your cap and gown. 
  CLICK THIS LINK TO ORDER 
  It’s literally $0. 
  Follow the instructions on this pdf for help.
  

  ---

  APPLY FOR THE COMMENCEMENT COMPETITIONS

  While you're on break, go ahead and apply for one of the Commencement competitions. Click here for more info and to apply.

  

  ---

  That's all the update's we have for now.

  Still have questions? 

  Check out the Commencement FAQs for info on your ceremony date, time, location, and more. 

  ---

• Tuesday, March 3, 2026

  From: Connie Stanley (cstanley@colum.edu)
  Date: 3/3/2026 12:52:35 PM
  Subject: Did You Order Your Cap & Gown?

  

  Hello Graduate,

  This is your not-so-friendly reminder to stop what you’re doing and order your cap & gown. 

  Seriously, there is zero reason to procrastinate. It’s literally $0. 
  Follow the instructions on this pdf for help.
  No excuses, no IOUs, no “I’ll do it later.”

  If you’ve already ordered yours, congratulations on following directions. 🎓✨
  Now, do me a favor and forward this to five friends who definitely have not done it yet.

  Below are two reminders, just in case you missed them:

  1. APPLY FOR THE COMMENCEMENT COMPETITIONS

  Represent your class by applying for one of the three commencement competitions below.
  Click here for more info and to apply.  

  

  ---

  2. READ THE COMMENCEMENT FAQ'S

  Have questions about Commencement? Check out the Commencement FAQs for info on your ceremony date, time, location, tickets, and more.

• Wednesday, February 11, 2026

  From: Connie Stanley (cstanley@colum.edu)
  Date: 2/11/2026 4:27:52 PM
  Subject: Graduates, It's Time to Order Your Cap & Gown!

  

   

  Hello Graduate,

  The official countdown to graduation starts now! 🎓✨
  I’ll be popping into your inbox every other week with reminders to help you stay on track for the big day. Do yourself a favor and actually read these emails all the way through.
  I promise they’ll have info you’ll need to prepare for graduation.
  
  Below are your first 3 reminders:

  ---

  1. ORDER YOUR CAP & GOWN ASAP

  Do NOT wait.
  You need to order your cap and gown via this link: Herff Jones
  (Your graduation application did not do this for you)

  Good news, it’s $0 to order your cap & gown.
  Follow the instructions on this pdf.
  If you add extras like frames, stoles, or rings, those will cost extra.

  Your cap and gown will ship straight to your preferred address.

  ---

  2. APPLY FOR THE COMMENCEMENT COMPETITIONS

  Represent your class by applying for one of the two commencement competitions below.
  Click here for more info and to apply.  

  

  ---

  3. READ THE COMMENCEMENT FAQ'S

  Have questions about Commencement? Check out the Commencement FAQs for info on your ceremony date, time, location, tickets, and more.