Event Requirements
Commencement is a private event limited to Denison students, families, friends, faculty, and staff.
Signs, banners, or other visual displays are prohibited, as are noisemakers and amplifying devices. Large totes, bags, and backpacks are not permitted. Medical exceptions are permitted.
This is a celebratory day for our students and all they’ve accomplished. Please note that persons engaging in behavior that is considered disruptive will be asked to leave the ceremony.
Commencement 2026 Ticket Information
To help us manage seating and create the best possible experience for everyone, Denison will introduce ticketing for the 2026 Commencement ceremony.
Each graduate will be able to reserve up to six tickets for family and friends to attend the May 16 ceremony in the Mitchell Athletic Center fieldhouse. Graduates may also request up to four additional tickets, which will be considered after the initial reservation deadline has passed.
When ticketing opens, each senior will receive a unique, non-transferable link tied to their Denison ID. Through this link, they’ll be able to reserve their initial six tickets and request any additional tickets in the same transaction.
More details about the ticket reservation timeline will be shared at the start of Spring Semester.
Seating
Seating in the Mitchell Center Field House is available on a first-come, first-seated basis. Doors to the venue will open at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, and graduation will begin promptly at 10:30 a.m.
All seating in the Mitchell Center Field House is accessible by wheelchair. Seating in all areas is general and unreserved. Ushers will help guide individuals and will be available to assist attendees in any emergency.
Safety & Security
At large-scale campus events like Commencement, Denison supplements our Campus Safety team with additional local law enforcement and medical personnel to enhance security, manage traffic flow, and support the well-being and experience of our campus community and guests.
Photography
Graduation Foto, the event photographer, will email grads directly at their Denison address and provide proofs and purchasing information. Denison is not involved in this process. Please visit graduationfoto.com for more information.
Additional photos will be posted on our Flickr site and may be downloaded free of charge.
Family members can take photos in a designated area near the stage.
Event Recording
A video recording will be posted on this site within 48 hours after Commencement.
