Commencement
2020 COMMENCEMENT (Updated 5/21/2020)
In April, when the University announced the rescheduling of the Providence Campus commencement ceremonies to August 22, we thought the date was far enough in the future that restrictions on gatherings would no longer be in effect. Unfortunately, due to the timeline the Rhode Island Governor has put forth regarding the resumption of activities in the state, large scale events, such as concerts, festivals, and commencements, will not be permitted this summer.
Below is a list of each campus's commencement websites. Please click on the campus name for commencement updates and information:
To all of the students who are completing their studies this year at JWU, we share in this disappointing and unfortunate turn of events. Regretfully, 2020 has become a year when many of the traditional face-to-face events that we enjoy annually have been cancelled or rescheduled due to public health restrictions. We are exploring how we will come together in 2021 to recognize and honor our 2020 graduates and will share our plan with you in the coming months.
2020 has also become a year when we re-imagine and find new ways to stay connected and share the joys of life. At JWU, we cannot allow 2020 to go by without celebrating our graduates, which is why the Providence Campus has a virtual salute planned for May 23 here.
While the pomp & circumstance may be different this year, we’re as proud as ever to honor the graduating Class of 2020. We invite you to share your graduation celebrations on social - tag us @JWUOnline or #JWU2020.
General Commencement Information for Online Students
Each year, students enrolled in online programs are invited to participate in Commencement ceremonies at the Providence Campus. However, students may choose to attend Commencement at an alternate campus. Students are encouraged to refer to Commencement website for information on Commencement ceremonies. Doctoral candidates may only participate in the Providence Campus ceremony.
Graduation refers to actually receiving a degree or certificate of completion once Johnson & Wales University has verified you as having met all degree or certificate requirements. Commencement is a ceremony. It is an opportunity for students, families, friends, and the JWU community to celebrate their academic accomplishments. Participation in commencement does not mean that students have graduated. Students must satisfy all graduation requirements before officially graduating and receiving a diploma.
Degree-seeking students must fall into one of the following categories: 1)The student is awarded a degree in the fall 2019 term/semester or winter 2019–20 term 2)The student is enrolled in the spring 2020 term/semester and, as of March 13, 2020, has an expected degree completion term/semester of spring 2020, summer 2020 or fall 2020.
To participate in the May commencement, students must: Submit an online graduation application for the term in which they expect to complete their requirements complete required student loan exit counseling obtain your cap and gown. Information regarding cap and gown ordering for online students will be emailed in early 2020. (Note: Students who have borrowed student loans and have not completed student loan exit counseling will not receive a cap and gown. Students will not be allowed to participate in the ceremony without a cap and gown.
How do I obtain my cap and gown?
Online students will receive communication to their Wildcat email with a form to order their cap & gown. Your cap & gown will be shipped to your home. The Providence Campus Bookstore will be processing all online cap & gown orders, regardless of the campus where you plan on attending commencement. Contact Molly Peabody 401-598-1445 or Molly.Peabody@jwu.edu) with any questions.
As an online student, how do I obtain my ticket(s) for the Providence undergraduate commencement ceremony?
Tickets are required for the undergraduate commencement ceremonies in Providence. (Graduates themselves do not need tickets; tickets are for guests.) To obtain tickets, email events@jwu.edu from Wildcat email address with the following information: (1) J number; (2) which ceremony, based on major, you plan to attend; (3) the number of tickets you are requesting (six is the maximum number of tickets).
Do I have to attend commencement at the Providence Campus?
Students enrolled in online programs are invited to participate in Commencement ceremonies at the Providence Campus. However, students may choose to attend Commencement at an alternate campus. Students are encouraged to refer to the Commencement website for information on Commencement ceremonies. Doctoral candidates may only participate in the Providence Campus ceremony.
When will I receive my diploma?
Diplomas are not distributed at commencement — graduates are given a diploma cover containing a letter from the Alumni Association. Participation in commencement does not confirm graduation. Graduation is not recorded until up to 30 days after the term has ended, grades have been received, and the degree audit of each expected graduate reviewed to confirm requirements have been satisfied. Awarded diplomas are mailed about 6 weeks after a term ends; see full policies.
I cannot or do not want to attend commencement. Do I need to tell anyone? Will my name be printed in the commencement program?
No notice is required if you are not attending. If you do not attend, your name will not be printed in the program and it will not be announced since you will not be in attendance to cross the stage.
If I am not attending commencement, do I still need to complete exit counseling?
If you have student loans, yes — this is a requirement.
