Graduation day
On graduation day – general instructions
Plan to arrive at Pierce Law no later than 9:00 a.m. in your tam and gown. Promptly at 9:00 a.m., a professional photographer will take group photos of the classes on the front steps of Pierce Law (the columned entrance). In case of rain, the photo will be taken in the Rich Room. Please be punctual so that the process runs smoothly. Classes will be photographed in the following order:
- JD
- MIPCT
- JD/MIPCT
- LLM
In case of rain
Don't let your tam and gown get wet! The fabric dye may bleed when wet and could damage your clothing. If it is raining, bring your tam and gown in the plastic bag provided.
Seating
Seating under the tent will be by ticket only until 10:25 a.m. Ushers will collect tickets and give instructions as to available seating. Guests without tickets will not be allowed under the tent until after 10:30 a.m. Thereafter, seats will be available as space allows. "saving" seats for others is not permitted. Please let Maryanne Aspell know if you have a guest who uses a wheelchair or needs special seating arrangements.
Parking
We have arranged with the Concord Police Department for an "easement of parking restrictions" around Pierce Law on May 17th. They have agreed to allow parking between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. on both sides of Washington Street between Rumford and Centre Streets, and both sides of White Street between Beacon and Washington Streets.
In addition to the handicapped parking spaces located in front of the Rines Building and behind the F. Dane Buck, Jr. Building, there will be two (2) designated handicapped spots along the fence by the White Park entrance at the corner of White and Washington Streets.
Photography
Arrangements have been made for a professional photographer to record the moment you are awarded your diploma. Approximately one (1) week after graduation, a full–color proof of this photo will be mailed to you at no charge. Enlargement packages will be available.
This service enables all students to have a photograph of their graduation. We ask that your families remain in their seats until your name is announced. There will be designated locations in the front of the tent for family members to take photos during the ceremony.
Diplomas
JD Degree candidates
You will receive your Juris Doctor diploma during the ceremony providing you have completed your exit counseling and cleared your account with the Business Office. If you are not planning to attend the commencement exercises you must make arrangements with the Registrar's Office to receive your JD diploma by mail.
LLM and MIP Degree candidates
LLM and MIP students will receive a symbolic diploma at the time of graduation. Students who have completed their degree requirements will have their diploma mailed to them shortly after graduation. Students who have not completed their degree requirements will receive their diploma upon completion of their program in early August.
Diplomas will be mailed to the address on record. Please be certain that your address is up to date and accurate with both the Registrar and Alumni offices. Second mailings are at the students' expense.
Joint Degree candidates
Those of you who have completed all requirements for receiving a joint degree by graduation day will walk up once during the ceremony. You will receive your diplomas at the time of graduation.
Bookstore
The Pierce Law Bookstore will be open the following hours:
Thursday, May 15th: noon to 4 p.m.
Friday, May 16th: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Saturday, May 17th: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
