Commencement

What is Commencement?

A graduation commencement convocation is a formal university ceremony that celebrates a student’s completion of their degree requirements, with “commencement” meaning “beginning” to symbolize the start of their post-academic life and career.

Applying for graduation is a formal process where students notify their institution of their intention to complete their degree requirements by a certain date. This application is crucial because it triggers a review of the student’s academic record to ensure all coursework, exams, and other requirements have been successfully completed for the awarding of the degree.

Attending the Commencement Ceremony is highly encouraged, as it is a celebration of one of your life’s greatest achievements. However, participation is optional and does not affect the status of a student’s degree completion. Once all academic and administrative requirements are met, the institution will confer the degree, whether or not the student chooses to participate in the Commencement Ceremony.

Therefore, while applying for graduation is a mandatory step in the process of earning a degree, attending the Commencement Ceremony is not a requirement for graduation but rather a celebratory event for our graduates.

Communication on Commencement

We employ many avenues to keep you informed about Commencement. This is an exciting time, and we don’t want you to miss anything! First and foremost, check your BEN.EDU email. Emails go out to graduating students at least monthly with very timely and important information. Second, check this web site. We will update this site regularly. Social media – watch your feeds for information and fun videos! Finally, look around campus – signage, electronic boards, display case by Starbucks, cardboard cut outs located around the campus. Stay alert – there just might be contests and prizes attached to these cut outs!

The schedule for the Lisle and Mesa Commencement Ceremonies, along with additional information regarding Commencement, can be found below.