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Campus Alert
UDC Facilities Update — Tuesday, Nov. 3

Buildings 32 and 42 are expected to remain closed through Nov. 10. This date is our current estimate and is subject to change pending ongoing evaluations and the safe restoration of the affected electrical systems.

The continued closure of Buildings 32 and 42 will affect School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS) operations as well as the operations of the Art, Digital Media and Chemistry programs. This includes in-person instruction and certain campus activities housed within those facilities. Emergency Remote Instruction (ERI) will remain in effect for impacted courses.

Visit the Campus Alerts page for more information. 

For safety concerns, contact OPSEM at 202-274-5050. For emergencies, call 911.

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Commencement 2024. Students in caps and gowns from the back.

Guest Information and Etiquette

Spring 2026

Welcome to the University of the District of Columbia Commencement Exercises

Group of family members posing together at a graduation celebration, with the graduate in cap and gown holding a diploma.Commencement is an important event in the life of the university, its students, faculty and staff. It is a joyous yet solemn event that represents the culmination of the graduates’ years of study. Thank you for joining us and for being a part of the celebration. Again, we welcome you!

Getting There

Walter E. Washington Convention Center
801 Allen Y. Lew Place NW (formerly 801 Mount Vernon Place NW)
Washington, DC 20001

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More Information on Getting There

Photographs

Only authorized working press and university photographers are permitted on the floor to take pictures during the Commencement ceremony. A professional photographer will take pictures of each graduate. These pictures will be available for order and purchase.

Family and friends of the graduates may take photographs after the ceremony in designated areas.

Special Needs

Ushers for individuals with mobility concerns

Ushers for attendees with special needs are located in Room 156, off the L Street/North Lobby, and are available to assist individuals with requests throughout the ceremony.

Accessible seating

Accessible seating is reserved for guests who require special seating because of age, illness or physical impairment. The accessible seating is marked with signage. Given the limited number of accessible seats, please note that only one family member may accompany the guest requiring accessible seating. The rest of the family must sit in the general seating area.

American Sign Language

American Sign Language interpretation of the ceremony will be provided.

First Aid

First Aid services will be available through GW Medical on-site during the Commencement ceremony.

Prohibited Items

Many items are prohibited from the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, including:

  • Metal, plastic and glass containers of any kind.
  • Backpacks and large bags over 14"x14".
  • Large flags and banners (except as noted).
  • Food and beverages

View the Complete List

Commencement Etiquette

Out of respect for other guests present, please:

Icon of a cellphone

Silence all devices

Icon of a hands clapping

Hold all applause until prompted

Icon of a bullhorn

No air horns or noisemakers

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Take all pictures with your graduate after the ceremony

Icon of a person walking

Limit your movement and remain seated until the ceremony ends

Icon of a surgical mask

Masks are optional

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