Guest Information: Cornell Law School Convocation

Tickets will not be required for guests attending the Law School Convocation. Accordingly, given the capacity at Newman Arena, students may bring as many guests as they wish.

The Law School will follow the same public health requirements for the Convocation Ceremony as Cornell University will use for its Commencement ceremony, in accordance with the guidelines set forth by New York State and the University.

These plans are subject to change if the public health situation warrants. Graduates will receive an e-mail update if there are any changes to Law School plans for Convocation. Up-to-date information on Convocation also will be available on the Law School’s Convocation website.

If you or anyone in your party requires special accommodations to attend the event, please email: law.dos@cornell.edu

Attire

There is no dress code for guests, though it is customary to wear business casual attire. 

Arrival and Seating 

Doors for the ceremony will open at 12:00 PM, and guests should plan to be seated by 1:30 PM. Once the procession begins, guests will not be able to enter Newman until the procession is over. 

Upon arriving at Newman, guests should immediately proceed inside the auditorium. Newman Arena has open, bleacher-style seating that is first-come, first-served. The bleachers on the west side of the auditorium have seats with backs and guests should arrive promptly when doors open if seating there is a priority. Accessible seating for those with mobility needs is on the floor behind the graduate seating.

Safety and Clear Bag Policy

CEAR BAG POLICY: To uphold health and safety protocols, minimize contact, and ensure a swifter entry process, a clear bag policy is strongly encouraged at the University Commencement Ceremonies on Saturday at Schoellkopf Field. Other weekend events are also encouraging clear bags.

It must be clear if a bag is necessary and all bags are subject to inspection. Permissible bags include clear totes (not exceeding 12” x 6” x 12”), 1-gallon clear storage bags, or strapless/handheld clutches (not exceeding 6.5″ x 4.5″). Diaper bags must be accompanied with a child. Cornell reserves the right to search persons, property, and non-transparent bags at various entrances.

Accessibility and Streaming

Sign language interpreters will be present at the event. The ceremony will be streamed to monitors throughout the arena. Additionally, guests may opt to watch a livestream of the ceremony in Room 184 at the Law School. The link will be available to share with those not able to come to Ithaca at a later date on this website.

Parking and Seating for Mobility Impaired Guests 

If you have made prior arrangements for guests who require mobility-impaired parking, special parking will be reserved in the parking lot immediately adjacent to Bartels Hall and a portion of the parking lot behind Myron Taylor Hall for the reception. 

In Newman Arena, there is seating on the floor behind graduates for any guests who may find it challenging to navigate the bleachers (regardless of whether they asked for parking permits). There is sufficient seating for family members who wish to remain with them. Ushers will be available to assist with seating.

Parking for All Other Guests 

Free parking is available at Hoy Garage and Kite Parking Lot and in the parking garage.

Shuttle Bus Service

For those not wishing to walk to the reception, the shuttle bus will run between Bartels Hall and Myron Taylor Hall beginning at 3:00pm. The last shuttle leaving Myron Taylor Hall back for Bartels will be at 5:30 PM.

Travel Information

Dining and Lodging

Food and beverages will be available at several locations on and off campus during the weekend. Visit our Dining section for details. We encourage guests to bring snacks to have on hand, especially for young children, elderly family members, or guests with special dietary needs.

Visit our Lodging section for more information about on-campus housing and local housing options.

Visa Information Guests and Students

If you are inviting international family or friends to come for your graduation, International Services has posted instructions for students and guests to follow. If you have additional questions, please visit Get Advice.