Student Affairs hosts the event each year in preparation for the university commencement ceremony. This year’s Commencement ceremonies are scheduled for 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 9, at Marshall Health Network Arena. For more information, visit www.marshall.edu/commencement.
The purpose of Countdown to Commencement is to assist those participating in commencement with communicating easily with campus administrative offices in a central location.
Students will also be able to write thank you cards, decorate their cap and enjoy refreshments while preparing for commencement.
The following services are available at Countdown to Commencement:
Alumni Relations: Students may visit the Alumni Relations table to learn about the help offered after graduation.
College of Education and Professional Development: The College of Education offers graduate education options.
Graduate Studies: Students may learn about the numerous master’s, doctoral and certificate programs Marshall offers. A graduate admissions counselor will be available to discuss Marshall University graduate programs and assist students with the admission process.
Jostens: Jostens will be available to help with a class ring or personalized graduation announcement. Students who receive a stamp from each table will be entered for a drawing to win a diploma frame from Josten’s.
GradImages: Photographers will take cap-and-gown portraits at the event. There is no sitting fee and no obligation to purchase.
Lewis College of Business: Prospective graduates are encouraged to stop by and receive information about the Brad D. Smith Graduate School of Business master’s degree programs – MBA, Accountancy, Health Care Administration, Health Informatics, Human Resource Management, Information Systems and Sport Administration.
Marshall Online: Students may want to connect with a team member from Marshall Online to learn more about continuing education in one of Marshall’s online degree programs. Also, students completing their degree in one of Marshall’s approved online programs, can check with the representative about getting the brand-new Marshall Online graduation cord.
Marshall University Bookstore: Students are invited to stop by to measure and purchase caps and gowns, tassels, diploma frames, class rings and graduation announcements.
Marshall University Foundation: Graduating students may stop by to sign the Class of 2026 banner, which will be displayed at graduation, and pick up a class pin.
Office of Student Financial Assistance: Information is available about the exit counseling process and student loan repayment.
Office of the Bursar: Students may talk with staff about student account information, holds and balances.
Office of Career Education: Students are invited to inform the Office of Career Education about their post-graduation plans and receive assistance on career journeys. They are also invited to learn more about Handshake, a jobs portal. Information and support will be available for job-related inquiries, resume assistance, LinkedIn guidance and more.
Office of the Registrar: Students may verify graduation status, name format and address for mailing the diploma; confirm commencement participation; obtain commencement instructions; and receive recognition cords for military service or ROTC. Bachelor’s and associate degree honor graduates may pick up honor cords and tassels; and students can report any special needs or concerns related to the event.
First Ascent: Upcoming graduates can meet with representatives of First Ascent, a two-year alumni program established to support graduates as they look for employment by helping them find hybrid or remote work that allows them to stay in West Virginia. The program includes outdoor recreation and social opportunities aimed at helping students build their community, networking, mentorship and professional development opportunities.
For more information about commencement, visit www.marshall.edu/commencement.