Winter Graduates
December 14, 2024, 10:00 a.m.
Sadler Center, Chesapeake Rooms
200 Stadium Dr
Williamsburg, VA
The Senior Class and the Graduate Council sponsor a recognition ceremony, honoring graduate and undergraduate students completing their degrees in January. This is not a graduation ceremony, so no regalia is worn.
Degree candidates will receive an email invitation from University Events before Thanksgiving. Students and their families are encouraged to discuss the event so students may RSVP and request tickets on their family's behalf. Tickets are required.
Watch the Winter 2023 Degree Recognition Ceremony
WATCH the 2023 Winter DEgree Recognition CEREMONY
Ceremony ProgramWelcome and CongratulationsSenior Class President Congratulations from the Graduate CouncilGraduate Council President President’s RemarksKatherine A. Rowe Greetings from a Recent Graduate
Recognition of Degree CandidatesVirginia M. Ambler ’88, Ph.D. ’06 Alumni InductionThe William & Mary Alumni Association Alumni Induction CreedAs a graduate of William & Mary With pride, I will support and cherish |
About the CeremonyThis is a ceremony to recognize winter graduates before departing William & Mary, but it is not a graduation ceremony. Winter graduates are invited to attend the formal graduation ceremony in May. The ceremony lasts about 45 minutes and includes remarks from the Graduate Council President, Senior Class President, a young alum and the President of the university. It also includes an alumni pinning ceremony. Each winter winter degree candidate is recognized by name, at which point the degree candidate crosses a small stage to receive a "stage diploma" (actual diplomas are mailed out in January). What to WearBusiness attire is appropriate for graduates and guests. This is not a formal ceremony. Graduates do not wear academic regalia (caps and gowns) at this event. Inviting GuestsTo ensure seating, guest tickets are required. At this time, each winter graduate is limited to a maximum of two (2) guests to this event. The number is based on the anticipated number of winter graduates and the space limitation of the room. Bag PolicyWe are implementing a clear-bag protocol for this event that regulates the size and type of bag that may be brought into the ceremony venue. Bags that are approved include:
Bags that are not permitted include:
We will have a secure location near the ceremony venue for storing bags that are not allowed inside. |
Official Degree ConferralThe "degree conferral" date listed in the Academic Calendar is the date when a student's official academic record will indicate that the degree has been earned. There are no formal Commencement exercises mid-year, which is why we host the Winter Graduates Reception in December and why we encourage those completing degrees mid-year to return for their formal Commencement celebration the following May. |
Winter Graduate Bell Ringing
Friday, December 6, 2024
12 Noon - 2:00 PM
Ringing the Wren Bell at the end of one's academic journey is a cherished William & Mary tradition! Winter graduates are encouraged to join us at the Wren Building on their last day of Fall Semester classes.
View 2024 Winter Graduate Bell Ringing Details
Questions?
Please email Commencement or call 757-221-1338