Q: Will this December (2009) Commencement still be held?
A: No, we will only hold ceremonies in May 2010 for candidates graduating in August and December 2009, and May 2010.
Q: I was planning to participate this December (2009); I graduate in August or December (2009). When can I participate now?
A: All students who receive August or December 2009 degrees or who are candidates for May 2010 degrees, are invited to participate in the May 2010 ceremonies. There will be one ceremony for undergraduates and another for graduate students, both outdoors on the Old Main Quad.
Q: If I am an August or December graduate, can I participate in the previous May ceremony before I finish my degree requirements?
A: No. Our policy has not changed. Candidates must have completed their degree requirements prior to participating in a commencement ceremony.
Q: If I take my final classes this summer, can I graduate in May 2009 instead?
A: No. Our policy has not changed. Candidates must have completed their degree requirements before participating in a commencement ceremony. To participate in a May ceremony, candidates must have either been granted their degree in August or December of the previous year, or have applied to graduate in December, and completed their requirements by the end of the following spring semester.
Q: Will there be a December 2010 graduation ceremony?
A: No, we will only hold ceremonies in May each year.
Q: Will you bring the December graduation ceremony back in the future?
A: It is our hope that we might bring back December Commencement ceremonies in better economic times.
Q: How much money will you save by canceling December Commencement?
A: We will save approximately $100,000 annually.
Q: Who can I contact for further information?
A: If your question is related to degree completion and ceremony eligibility, please contact Tegan Scism in the Records and Registration office at (845) 257-3110 or e-mail scismt@newpaltz.edu. If your question is related to the May, 2010 ceremonies, please contact the Events Office at (845) 257-2603 or e-mail commencement@newpaltz.edu.