Commencement 2008

2008 COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY – GENERAL INFORMATION

Frequently Asked Questions

Are tickets required to attend the ceremony?
No – the ceremony will be held outdoors where there is plenty of seating. There is, however, a Plan B should it rain. In this case, the ceremony will be indoors and there will be limited seating.

Will there be a sign language interpreter available or should I provide one?
There will be an American Sign Language Interpreter on stage during the ceremony.

Do I need a cap and gown if I want to be in the ceremony?
Graduates – Yes, you MUST wear a cap and gown.
Faculty – Faculty participating in the ceremony wear a black cap and gown.

When and where can I buy my cap and gown?
Students will be able to purchase their cap, tassel and gown at the Bookstore (both FLC and EDC). The cost is $26 (including tax). Students will also be able to buy graduation announcements and extra tassels.

How long will the ceremony last?
It should run from 6:30 p.m. to approximately 8 or 8:30 p.m.

Will there be a rehearsal and is it mandatory?
Yes, the rehearsal will begin at 5:30 p.m. in Portable 16. If you are planning to participate in the ceremony, you must attend the rehearsal. During this time, you will be instructed on entering and exiting the commencement area, receiving your diploma tube on the stage, proper tassel placement, and seating arrangements. Make sure to check in at the table outside of Portable 16 between 4:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. Go to this link for more information.

Will there be a photographer at the ceremony?
Yes – there will be a photographer available for portrait photography prior to the ceremony. Click on this LINK for information about the commencement photographer and available packages.

Do guests have to pay for parking during the ceremony?
No – however, handicapped parking is strictly enforced that evening. Give yourself plenty of time to find a parking space!

Is there a reception for the graduates?
Yes – there will be a cookie and punch reception after the ceremony.

Do I have to participate in the ceremony to get my diploma?
No, but we highly encourage your participation. This is an important accomplishment, and the ceremony recognizes your hard work and persistence in attaining your Associate Degree.

If I petitioned for a Spring degree, when will I get my diploma?
You will not receive your diploma at the commencement ceremony. You will, however, receive a diploma tube along with a message from the President. After grades for the spring term have been posted in early June, the evaluations department will conduct final evaluations, followed by the posting of the degree on the transcript and ordering of diplomas. Degree posting will occur approximately one-two months after the end of the term and your diploma will be mailed approximately one month after that. Please be sure to notify the Evaluations department at FLC of any change of address.

How is the Highest Honors designation determined (students with a GPA of 3.5 and above will receive a gold tassel when they check in at rehearsal)?
Honors status is based upon your grades from ALL semesters PRIOR to your semester of graduation, including any Other College Transcripts. For example, if a student petitions for a Spring 2008 degree, their GPA is determined using their coursework PRIOR to the Spring 2008 semester.

I am a Phi Theta Kappa member. How can I find out if I am on the FLC PTK list?
Contact either Alice Textor at (916) 608-6603 or Wayne Jensen at (916) 608-6629.

How can I find out about the status of my degree petition?
Contact the counselor you petitioned with. Their phone number is (916) 608-6500 for FLC and (530) 642-5645 for EDC.

For more Information, please call the FLC Admissions & Records Office
at (916) 608-6500.