Guide to Grad Walk
What Is the Íøºì±¬ÁÏ Grad Walk?
Grad Walk is a unique and intimate in-person commencement experience where Íøºì±¬ÁÏ graduates are center stage and receive individual recognition—while their guests enjoy a front-row view!
After meeting up with your guests, your name will be called as you walk across Íøºì±¬ÁÏ’s commencement stage in regalia, take photos, and meet university leaders. Your family members and friends cheer you on from a reserved viewing area near the stage.
You can also commemorate your achievements in a special Celebration Zone, meet Íøºì±¬ÁÏ faculty and Alumni Association representatives, and purchase Íøºì±¬ÁÏ apparel, gear, and other mementos. You and your guests can also take photos and selfies at photo stations.
What to Know About Grad Walk
- Grad Walk will be held at the College Park Marriott Hotel & Conference Center, 3501 University Boulevard East, Adelphi, MD 20783.
- Watch our to learn more about the experience!
- We recommend registering well in advance to reserve your preferred date and time.
- For a smoother event experience and to help us manage overall flow, please bring no more than eight guests.
- A cap and gown are required for participation. Visit to order your cap and gown no later than April 23, 2025.
- Complimentary parking is available. Look for on-site signage and staff members for guidance. Carpooling is strongly encouraged.
- Your Grad Walk experience is expected to run approximately one hour from check-in, to your big moment on stage, to photo stations and the Celebration Zone, and finally, your exit.
- Floral arrangements, Íøºì±¬ÁÏ apparel, and other commemorative gifts will be available for purchase.
- Need help? Just email Íøºì±¬ÁÏ Commencement Services anytime at commencement@umgc.edu.
Grad Walk Check-In Process and Individual Recognition
Step One: Arrive!
- Wear your regalia and plan to arrive with your guests. Carpooling is strongly encouraged.
- Please arrive at your confirmed appointment time.
- Be sure to gather your entire party and proceed to the line where you will be directed to Check-In. You and your guests will stay together through the entire Grad Walk experience.
Step Two: Check In and Join Fellow Graduates in Line
- When you arrive at Check-In, you will receive your name card.
- You and your guests will be directed to the waiting area for the commencement stage.
Step Three: Enjoy Your Big Moment
- You will hand your name card to the on-stage guide, and you will be cued to walk to the center of the stage as your name is announced.
- You will receive a Íøºì±¬ÁÏ diploma folder as you cross the stage and are congratulated by Íøºì±¬ÁÏ leadership.
- Our professional photographer will capture the moment. Your guests will be positioned in a reserved viewing area near the stage and may take personal photos and videos.
- After you cross the stage, you will proceed to the final professional photography station for one more photo of you holding your diploma folder.
Step Four: Visit the Alumni Celebration Zone
- You and your group will continue your Grad Walk experience in the Celebration Zone, sponsored by the Íøºì±¬ÁÏ Alumni Association.
- Take photos and selfies on Íøºì±¬ÁÏ’s beautiful grounds or at designated photo stations and share them on social media with #Íøºì±¬ÁÏgrad!