Guide to Grad Walk
What Is the UMGC Grad Walk?
Grad Walk is an intimate, in-person, graduation experience where the focus is on YOU—the graduate, AND your friends and family who join you for the event.
After meeting up with your guests, your name will be called as you walk across UMGC’s commencement stage in regalia, take photos, and meet university leaders. Your family members and friends cheer you on from a viewing area, standing directly in front of the stage.
You can also commemorate your achievements in a special Celebration Zone, meet UMGC Alumni Association representatives, and purchase UMGC apparel, gear, and other mementos. You and your guests can also take photos and selfies at photo stations.
What to Know About Grad Walk
- Grad Walk will be held at the College Park Marriott Hotel & Conference Center, 3501 University Boulevard East, Adelphi, MD 20783.
- Watch our video to learn more about the experience!
- Download our Guide to Grad Walk for a step-by-step breakdown of what will happen on your special day.
- We recommend registering well in advance to reserve your preferred date and time.
- Each graduate is welcome to bring up to six guests to celebrate their achievement.
- A cap and gown are required for participation. Visit cbdgrad.com to order your cap and gown no later than December 1, 2022.
- Complimentary parking is available. Look for on-site signage and staff members for guidance. Carpooling is strongly encouraged.
- Your Grad Walk experience is expected to run approximately one hour from check-in, to your big moment on stage, to photo stations and the Celebration Zone, and finally, your exit.
- Floral arrangements, UMGC apparel, and other commemorative gifts will be available for purchase.
- Need help? Just email UMGC Commencement Services anytime at commencement@umgc.edu.
- UMGC will comply with local COVID-19 regulations and guidance from the CDC in effect at the time of the Grad Walk; additional information will be provided and updated, as necessary.
- COVID-19 vaccination is strongly encouraged but not required.
- Social distancing and the use of masks are encouraged. We ask those who are unvaccinated to wear masks.
Grad Walk Check-In Process and Individual Recognition
Step One: Arrive!
- Wear your regalia and plan to arrive with your guests. Carpooling is strongly encouraged.
- Please arrive at your confirmed appointment time.
- Be sure you meet up with your entire party before you enter the “Welcome Area” where you will be directed to “Check In.” You and your guests will stay together through the entire Grad Walk experience.
Step Two: Check In and Join Fellow Graduates in Line
- When you arrive at check-in, you will receive your name card.
- You and your guests will be directed to the waiting area for the commencement stage.
Step Three: Enjoy Your Big Moment
- You will hand your name card to the on-stage guide, and you will be cued to walk to the center of the stage as your name is announced.
- You will receive a UMGC diploma folder as you cross the stage and are congratulated by UMGC leadership.
- Our professional photographer will capture the moment. Your guests will be positioned in front of the stage and may take personal photos and videos.
- After you cross the stage, you will proceed to the final professional photography station for one more photo of you holding your diploma folder.
Step Four: Visit the Alumni Celebration Zone
- You and your group will continue your Grad Walk experience in the Celebration Zone, sponsored by the UMGC Alumni Association.
- Take photos and selfies at designated photo stations and share them on social media with #UMGCgrad!