Celebrating the Class of 2026
Commencement is the formal ceremony that is held to recognize and honor degree candidates for graduation. These graduation ceremonies celebrate the traditional observances that accompany one of the highest rewards of academic achievement. Please go to the Programs & Eligibility page for participation criteria, ceremony programs, and common FAQs.
Commencement activities are summarized below. We recommend the Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority website for hotel and lodging options. Because rooms and tables can book quickly, we suggest making reservations as early as possible.
2026 Senior Toast
- Wednesday, April 29, 2026 @ the JWU Charlotte Campus
- Check back for finalized details and RSVP instructions
2026 Commencement
- Thursday, April 30, 2026 @ Bojangles Coliseum
- Noon Arrival Time/Doors Open
- 1:00 PM Ceremony Begins
Arrival Instructions for Commencement
Let's celebrate the Wildcat Way! Please review the following instructions in full to know what's expected. Allow plenty of time to park, arrive, and get situated. All persons in attendance are asked to remain seated for the entire duration of the ceremony (leaving early causes disruptions and shows extreme disrespect). Commencement ends after all names have been read, a brief celebration video plays, and the platform party exits the stage (ushers will guide graduates when it's time to leave the commencement floor). To help ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience for everyone, students who are visibly intoxicated, disruptive, or otherwise behaving inappropriately may be asked to leave the commencement ceremony at the university’s discretion.
Where is commencement? Is there parking?
Ceremonies will take place inside the Bojangles Coliseum, which is located at 2700 East Independence Boulevard, Charlotte, NC 28205. Refer to the venue’s website for their arena policies. Parking is available for free at the venue.
Where and how do graduating students enter the Coliseum and line up? What do I need to know for crossing the stage?
- Enter on the right side of the Coliseum at the bridge (follow signs).
- Go through security and then pick up your name card (keep it with you until you get to the commencement stage).
- Follow signs to line up with classmates in your college/program (listed on your name card).
- There is no alphabetical lineup, so you can line up (and sit) with friends.
- If needed, use a restroom now (you CANNOT use one during the ceremony).
- When it’s time, ushers will guide you to the commencement floor and, later, to the stage.
- Pay attention to those in front of you, keep the line moving, and use caution (stage steps are steep).
- At stage-bottom, you will receive a diploma cover (yours to keep).
- At stage-top, hand your name card to the announcer who will use it to read your name out loud to the arena.
- Walk to center stage, greet the Department Chair or Charlotte Campus President, exit the stage, and return to your seat.
Where should families & guests enter the Coliseum?
- Enter through the main entrance located under the dome.
- After passing through the security check, sit anywhere (seats are not assigned).
- Guests in wheelchairs may be brought to sections that are accessible to them (the arena does not supply wheelchairs).
- Bathroom facilities are available only after passing through security and entering the concourse & concessions area.
Is there a security check? What things are not allowed inside the Coliseum?
There are security checkpoints at all entrances. Bags, briefcases, backpacks, luggage, drugs, weapons of any kind, noisemakers, laser pointers, balloons, and outside food/beverages are strictly prohibited. Refer to the venue’s website for their arena policies.
Will grads be photographed during commencement? Can I take photos on campus?
Yes, professional photographers will take a series of quick photos as grads approach and leave the stage. Photos will be available online at gradimages.com 1-2 weeks after the ceremony. All graduating students, families, and friends are welcome to stop by campus to take photos at popular spots like Academic Center Quad or The Wildcat Den.