SCAD Commencement 2015 in Atlanta
Join us as we honor and celebrate the Class of 2015 during spring commencement.
The Presidential Conferment of Degrees ceremony begins at 6 p.m., and will honor all students. We are also honored to announce John Lasseter, Chief Creative Officer of Walt Disney and Pixar Animation Studios and Principal Creative Advisor for Walt Disney Imagineering, as our distinguished guest speaker, who will address the class of 2015 during the ceremony.
Guest information
Ticket information
Because of limited seating in the Georgia Ballroom, all guests must possess a ticket to attend the ceremony. Tickets must be picked up in advance of the ceremony by the graduating student. Students should visit the graduation channel on MySCAD for more information.
Graduates will be allotted six tickets for the commencement ceremony. Commencement tickets can be picked up from the SCAD Atlanta Student Success Center May 18-28. Friends and family members who are unable to attend may also view the ceremony via the live webcast.
Bag policy
We have implemented the following policies to ensure the comfort of all of our guests during the commencement ceremony. Large bags including backpacks, suitcases, large camera bags and large purses are not allowed in the venue. All purses, bags and packages are subject to inspection before entry to the venue. Students will be permitted to check their keys prior to the start of the ceremony but may not store or check any other items.
Disability access
Handicapped-accessible seating is available if guests require special accommodations. Because of limited handicapped-accessible seating, only one person may accompany the individual in the designated seating area.
Contact the events department via email or call 404.253.3263 for disability seating requests. You must have a special seating ticket to sit in the designated area, and all requests must be submitted by Friday, May 1. Any special seating tickets requested by the graduating student will be counted toward the total number of tickets allotted to that student. Special seating tickets can be picked up from the SCAD Atlanta Student Success Center, May 18-28.
Atlanta accommodations
SCAD has compiled several hotel options convenient to SCAD Atlanta, and many of these hotels offer reduced rates for SCAD guests.
Parking information
Parking is available at the Gold Parking Deck and the Blue Parking Lot near the Georgia World Congress Center.
Georgia World Congress Center Gold Deck: Located between the Georgia Dome and Building C
Georgia World Congress Center Blue Lot: Located across from Building C
Both parking areas are accessible via Northside Drive and rates are approximately $8-$10.
Transportation to the ceremony
MARTA: The Georgia World Congress Center is MARTA-accessible via the Vine City Station.
Guest shuttle: Free shuttle service is offered between SCAD Atlanta and the Georgia World Congress Center. Shuttles will loop between the two locations every 15 minutes beginning at 4:30 p.m. For more information, contact the events department via email or call 404.253.3263.
What do I need to do to be considered for graduation?
All students should apply for graduation two quarters prior to expected completion of their degree. Students must complete an application online through MySCAD.
Who do I contact if I have questions about my eligibility to graduate?
For questions regarding your graduation audit, eligibility to graduate or eligibility to participate in the ceremony, you may contact your graduation auditor. Use your SCAD email account for all correspondence.
Is there any kind of meeting before the ceremony that participating graduates have to attend?
Yes. There is a participation meeting at 1 p.m., Friday, May 15, in SCAD Atlanta Room 256. All students participating in the commencement ceremony are encouraged to attend for important details.
There is also a mandatory graduation rehearsal at 4 p.m., Friday, May 29, at the Georgia World Congress Center.
Do I still need to apply if I will not participate in the ceremony?
Yes. Any student who wants to have their degree awarded must apply to graduate. If you decide not to participate in the commencement ceremony, we will need to remove your name from our lists. Contact your graduation auditor immediately.
Note: "Graduation" and "graduating" are not the same. The commencement ceremony is often referred to as "graduation." This is a ceremony only and is the day when students are acknowledged and have the ceremonial conferment of their degree. No diplomas are handed out at this event. It is to be considered a day of celebration.
How do I get tickets?
Due to limited seating, graduates will be allotted six tickets for the commencement ceremony. Commencement tickets must be picked up by the graduating student from the SCAD Atlanta Student Success Center May 18-28.
Students should visit the graduation channel on MySCAD for more information.
How will I receive my diploma?
Diplomas will be mailed to the graduates at their diploma mailing address. Graduates should ensure their diploma address on their graduation application. Diplomas will be mailed six to eight weeks after the graduation ceremony.
Will I get my picture taken at the commencement ceremony?
Grad Images, Inc. will be available to photograph students in the lobby of the Georgia World Congress Center prior to the commencement ceremony. A passport-sized photo proof and order form will be sent within 30 days of commencement to the email address on file with the school.
Note: SCAD student email addresses will be inactive 90 days after completing coursework and graduation requirements.
How do I order my cap and gown?
Information about ordering your cap and gown will be posted here soon.
Can I bring my cellphone, camera, purse or bag, or food and drinks to the ceremony?
No food or drinks are allowed. All cellphones must be turned off during the ceremonies. You cannot take pictures during the ceremony. Purses and bags are not allowed since there is no place for you to leave them. Anything you have with you must fit in a pocket under your gown.
Will the ceremony be viewable online?
Yes. Spring 2015 Commencement will be available via the live webcast on graduation day.
For additional information about the commencement ceremony in Atlanta, contact the registrar’s office via email or call 404.253.3103.