Commencement

Information for parents and guests

Goodwin University is pleased to welcome you to the 2024 Commencement. We are delighted to be celebrating with you and your family at this exciting time.

Here are some things you need to know for your graduate’s big day:

Parking

Guests will park in the lot for Gate C and enter through Gate C. Gate C will open at 3 p.m. Guests requiring accessibility services must register in advance. Gate C will open at 2 p.m. for accessibility seating ONLY.

Arrival and entry

The 2024 Commencement will be held outdoors at Rentschler Field in East Hartford. The ceremony begins at 4 p.m. The event is general admission and tickets are not required for entry. There is also no guest limit and no assigned seating. All bags are subject to search upon entry and are subject to additional searches within the stadium. Backpacks or oversized bags are not permitted. Purses/tote bags that are smaller than 12″ x 6″ x 12″ will be permitted. Diaper bags are permitted in the company of a small child. Bags carrying medical needs will also be permitted and are subject to search by venue personnel. Baby strollers are not allowed into the stadium. Re-entry is not allowed. You will be scanned with a metal detector at the gate.

Food

Complimentary water will be available at the gate and in the concourse. There will be one concession stand open. You will be able to purchase soft drinks and food there. Please no gathering in the concourse and return to your seats immediately after purchasing food.

Livestream

A livestream of the ceremony will be available on the Goodwin University website for guests who are unable to attend in person.

Photography

GradImages is the official photographer for the 2024 Commencement. A package with proofs and order information will be mailed to graduates’ homes after graduation. Please note that guests will not be allowed to come to the front of the stage or into the aisles for photos of or with their graduate. You will be asked to move out of the aisle or from the front of the stage by a Goodwin University staff member.

Commencement printed program

Printed programs will be available with a QR code to link to the list of graduates.

Duration of ceremony

The duration of the ceremony is approximately three hours. Out of respect for all graduates, graduates are expected to remain for the entire ceremony.