Class of 2020 Commencement Tickets
Why do guests need tickets for Commencement this year?
This year, due to Pennsylvania COVID-19 restrictions related to reduced capacity and physical distancing at large gatherings, Messiah University is requiring guest tickets for Commencement. Messiah is requiring tickets for entry so that all graduates are treated fairly and may have the opportunity to invite an equal number of guests.
How many tickets will graduates receive for Commencement?
Each Class of 2020 graduate will be allotted four (4) tickets for guests to attend Commencement on Shoemaker Field. Pennsylvania’s current restrictions on gatherings are based on number of persons in attendance. Accordingly, all guests will require a ticket for entrance, regardless of age.
Will the Commencement ceremony be livestreamed?
Yes, the Commencement ceremony will be livestreamed starting at 9:30 a.m. so that those who are unable to attend in person will be able to participate remotely.
View the live stream of the Commencement ceremony.
Do graduates need to have a ticket to attend Commencement?
No, graduates do not need a ticket for the Commencement ceremony, only their guests.
How will the Class of 2020 receive Commencement tickets for their guests?
In April, Messiah will mail Commencement tickets to those Class of 2020 graduates who registered to attend the May 8 ceremony. The University will mail tickets, along with a parking pass, to the home address on record with Messiah; so it is important for graduates to make sure they have their mailing information up to date. Graduates may report address changes by emailing the Registrar’s Office at registrar@messiah.edu.
Will there be a "will-call" location where guests can pick up tickets the morning of Commencement?
No; it is extremely important to note that it is each graduate's responsibility to ensure that their guests receive their tickets prior to the Commencement ceremony. Due to the numerous logistical challenges related to Commencement, the University will be unable to operate a "will call" window for distributing tickets to guests.
Are guest tickets valid if Commencement is moved inside due to inclement weather?
No, not this year. If inclement weather prohibits Commencement from being held outdoors, and if state restrictions permit, the service will be held indoors in Hitchcock Arena. If Commencement is moved inside, regrettably, physical distance protocols will not allow for guest seating, and guest tickets will not be valid. Only the graduates will be able to attend Commencement in-person indoors. However, the Commencement ceremony will be livestreamed so that all guests may view remotely.
What arrangements may be made for guests with a disability or other special needs at Commencement?
Graduates who have a disability or special needs, or who have guests with special needs, are asked to contact the Office of Conference and Event Services by 5 p.m. on Friday, April 30, 2021, at (717) 691-6009. Our staff will be pleased to discuss what advance arrangements we can make to help ensure a positive experience for you and your guests.
If I am not planning to use the Commencement tickets I am allocated, may I give them to someone else to use?
No. This year, due to the socially distanced restrictions of seating at the field, graduates may not give their unused Commencement tickets away to others. Additionally, University staff members are not authorized to mail or give a graduate’s tickets to someone else on their behalf, i.e., you will not be able to “leave a ticket” for someone else to pick up.
What if I lose my tickets?
It is very important to note that all Commencement tickets are non-replaceable, and cannot be re-issued if lost. Graduates are urged to keep their tickets in a safe place and be sure to give them to their guests to bring to the ceremony. To ensure fair circumstances for everyone, all guests will be required to show a ticket for entry into Commencement.
Are Commencement tickets reserved seating or general admission?
All Commencement tickets are general admission. Due to social distancing protocols, each graduate’s four guests will be seated together (and will be physically distanced from other guests) and should arrive to enter the venue together. Graduating seniors will be seated together as a socially distanced group, and not with their guests.
Can anyone other than graduates get Commencement tickets?
No, Commencement tickets will only be issued directly to graduates for use by their family and guests.
Can I put my name on a "waiting list" for additional Commencement tickets?
No. Messiah's Ticket Office will not be managing a "wait list" or a "will call" window for Commencement tickets.
How will I know if Messiah is moving Commencement indoors due to inclement weather?
A decision regarding any changes to the schedule will be made no later than 6 a.m. on Commencement day. Important announcements regarding the schedule and any changes will be posted on the University's telephone hotline at (717) 691-6084 and on the University's web site at www.messiah.edu.