Commencement
Doane Commencement 2027
Doane University’s commitment to academic excellence shines through on this special day. Congratulations to the leaders who will continue to make a difference in the world.
Please join us for Doane’s Commencement ceremonies on Saturday, May 15, 2027.
Ceremony Information
Saturday, May 15, 2027
Morning Ceremony — 10:00 a.m., Central Time
The morning ceremony is for:
- Lincoln and Online (Doane Extended) undergraduate and graduate programs
- College of Arts, Education, & Sciences: Lincoln and online undergraduates and graduate students from Master of Arts in Counseling, Master of Education and Doctorate of Education
- College of Business, Humanities, and Technology: Lincoln and online undergraduates and graduate students from the Master of Arts in Leadership, Master of Business Administration and Master of Science in Instructional Design & Technology
Lining up Before Commencement: Graduates line up for the ceremony at 9:15 a.m. on the south side of Chab Weyers Education & Hixson Lied Art Building.
Eligibility: Students who have completed graduation requirements for the current year during March or May are welcome to walk.
Personal Items: Graduates should leave personal items with family members in attendance, as there isn't secure storage available.
Afternoon Ceremony — 2:00 p.m., Central Time
The afternoon ceremony is for students graduating from Crete’s undergraduate programs
Lining up Before Commencement: Graduates line up for the ceremony at 1:15 p.m. in the Fuhrer Fieldhouse Arena.
Personal Items: Graduates should leave personal items with family members in attendance, as there isn't secure storage available.
Commencement Weekend Schedule
Thursday, May 13, 2027
- Commencement Rehearsal — 4:00 - 4:25 p.m.
Heckman Auditorium- Attendance at rehearsal is required for Crete residential students participating in Commencement. Rehearsal is an important part of preparing for the ceremony.
- Senior Toast — 4:30 - 6:30 p.m.
President’s Residence, Outdoor Patio
After rehearsal, students are invited to a reception and Senior Toast at the President's Residence, hosted by the Doane Alumni Office.
Friday, May 14, 2027
- Baccalaureate — 5:30 p.m.
Heckman Auditorium- Students are asked to arrive at 5:00 p.m. in full cap and gown.
- President’s Concert — 7:30 p.m.
Heckman Auditorium
Additional Information
Commencement Ceremony Livestream / Video
The ceremony will be streamed on Doane University's YouTube channel for guests unable to attend the ceremony in person.
* Previous ceremony videos and guest speaker addresses are available on the Doane University YouTube page.
Inclement Weather:
In case of rain or severe weather, both ceremonies will be moved to the Fuhrer Fieldhouse Arena. The rain call decision will be made on Thursday, May 13, at noon. If we move indoors, the parking plan above still stands — Lots G and H sit right next to the Fieldhouse, so handicap and limited-mobility access doesn't change. It will be announced on the Doane University website and social media platforms. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter).
Accessibility Accommodations:
Designated parking and seating is available for handicapped guests. Special seating will be offered for those in wheelchairs.
Graduation fee:
There is a $45 graduation fee. This fee is charged to cover the cost of graduation activities. The fee is levied prior to graduation regardless of whether you attend Commencement. This fee is waived upon completion of the online graduation/assessment survey. An email invitation asking you to complete the survey will be sent to you approximately a month prior to your completion date.
Diploma/student account requirements:
Account balances must be paid in full the Thursday prior to Commencement for graduates to receive their diploma at the ceremony. Accounts that are not paid in full will receive an empty portfolio during the ceremony. Diplomas are sent when accounts are paid, and requirements are completed. Contact the Business Office in Crete at 800.333.6263 for more details. (Make phone number clickable)
Cap, gown and hood information:
- Doane Extended (Lincoln and Online graduate and undergraduate degree students): Visit jostens.com to order your cap, gown and hood online. Please note: The website is only available during specific times prior to graduation. Information on how to navigate the site will be provided closer to graduation. Jostens ships items directly to your home address.
- Crete (Residential) undergraduate degree students: Please purchase a gown from the Doane Bookstore 2-3 weeks prior to the ceremony.
Guest information:
Undergraduate and graduate students may bring as many guests to the ceremony as they wish. Please advise guests to arrive early to the ceremony. Early arrival assures a better chance for closer parking and seating.
Graduation announcements:
Announcements may be purchased at www.cbgrad.com.
Doane Bookstore
You can purchase memorabilia at the Doane Bookstore, located in the lower level of Perry Memorial Campus Center. You can also order online.
