Severe Weather Plan
We expect the 175th Commencement Ceremony to be held outside on Malesardi Quadrangle on Sunday, May 18, 2025, rain or shine.
If severe weather is likely, including thunderstorms with lightning, high winds, or heavy or prolonged rain, Commencement may be delayed or moved indoors. This will be determined by 6:30 a.m. on Sunday, May 18. To alert you to the change, we will make announcements through 570-577-2020 and campus email notification. Signs will be posted at the entrances to Malesardi Quadrangle and the lobby of the Elaine Langone Center. In addition, the University telephone operators will be providing information at 570-577-2000.
If Delayed
The procession and ceremony may be postponed up to two hours and then remain outdoors as planned.
If Moved Indoors
Should rain or other weather conditions imperil the outdoor ceremony, Commencement will be held in Gerhard Fieldhouse at 10 a.m. Each graduate will receive five tickets for the indoor ceremony when they receive their caps and gowns. Since there is insufficient seating available in Gerhard Fieldhouse for all guests, only individuals with tickets will be admitted. Ushers will be on duty to answer questions and to direct you to guest seating. Guests who do not have tickets can view Commencement by live webcast at the Weis Center for the Performing Arts and Trout Auditorium in the Vaughan Literature Building. Additional viewing locations will posted on the University website and in the Elaine Langone Center.
If the event must be moved indoors, Graduates will not process. Graduates will take their seats before 9:40 a.m. and will be arranged in the same order whether the Ceremony is held inside or outside. A detailed seating chart will be distributed to each graduate before Commencement. Faculty marshals and assistants will be stationed in the area reserved for graduate seating and will seat graduates in the order in which they will receive degrees.