Commencement Ceremony Frequently Asked Questions

Commencement Ceremony Location, Date, & Time

Los Angeles Convention Center – Petree Hall – 1201 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90015

Date: Saturday, August 22, 2026

**The date in the top right-hand corner is the date the FAQ was published, NOT the graduation date.**

Graduation Start Time: 5:00 PM

• Graduation Check-in (for graduating students only): Students must arrive at 3:45 PM to check in, take photographs, and participate in the rehearsal.

Livestream Information:

For friends and family who are unable to attend in person, the ceremony will be available to watch through our graduation livestream. Please share the link below with loved ones who would like to celebrate with you from afar.

https://smithchason-edu.zoom.us/j/83717431227 

Questions or Concerns about Graduation?

For any questions or concerns about graduation, please contact the Los Angeles Student Services team: la.studentservices@smithchason.edu

Graduate FAQs

Where is graduation held?

The Graduation ceremony will be held on Saturday, August 22^nd, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. at the Los Angeles Convention Center: 1201 South Figueroa Street, Los Angeles, California 90015 – Petree Hall

Where do I park?

Park in the West Hall Parking Garage. Parking will be $30 per vehicle. Other city and street parking is available. Proceed to the West Hall lobby, continue upstairs to the check-in tables.

How can I confirm I will be attending?

The RSVP deadline for graduation has passed. However, if you were invited to participate in the ceremony and are still interested in attending, please contact Student Services at: la.studentservices@smithchason.edu

Where do I get my Cap and Gown?

A Cap and Gown is required for participation in the ceremony. You will order your cap and gown directly from the vendor. Link is attached here: SMITH CHASON COLLEGE – Los Angeles — Achievers Cap & Gown .

Deadline to order your cap and gown is: 07/31/2026. This fee was not covered by your tuition; you are responsible for this payment. The vendor will mail the cap and gown directly to your home address. The stole and tassel will be available to pick up on campus during our Graduation Expo. Feel free to decorate your cap!

When is the Graduation Expo?

The graduation expo will be held at the Los Angeles Campus- 3580 Wilshire Blvd Los Angeles CA 90010 2^nd floor. This is where grads will pick up their stole, tassel and guest tickets.

You have one of three days to choose from for the grad expo:

• Tuesday August 11^th, 10am-5pm.
• Friday August 14^th , 11am-7pm.
• Saturday August 15^th , 10am-2pm.

You MUST rsvp to the grad expo- link will be provided in the upcoming weeks.

What should I wear?

The Cap and Gown is white. Business attire is suggested. Women may wear slacks or a skirt and a blouse, or a dress underneath the gown. Gentlemen may wear slacks and a dress shirt.

What time should I arrive?

The ceremony begins promptly at 5:00 pm. However, graduates need to arrive by 3:45 pm. PLEASE DO NOT BE LATE. The graduation ceremony will last approximately two hours.

What about Photographs?

A professional portrait photographer will be available. You are also welcome to bring your own camera.

Will I receive my Diploma/Degree?

No, the graduation is for ceremonial purposes only. Your diploma/degree is issued by the Registrar when all requirements have been met including a zero-account balance.

How many guests can I bring?

Each participating graduate will receive 4 guest tickets which can be picked up during our Graduation Expo. Children under age 2 do not need a ticket. Additional tickets will not be sold as we have reached maximum room capacity. Seating will be on a first come first serve basis.

Guests will not be allowed to “reserve” seats. This event will be live streamed; a link will be shared as we get closer to graduation.

I am an ADN/VN program graduate, what will the process be for pinning?

ADN/VN pinning will occur at graduation once all programs have walked on stage. ADN/VN graduates will be pinned by a designated licensed faculty member. The lighting of the lamp and the Florence Nightingale Pledge will then be recited by all nurses.

What items are prohibited at The Convention Center?

Weapons, illegal substances, outside food, and helium balloons are not allowed inside the theatre. Beverages will be available for guest.

Questions or Concerns about Graduation?

For any questions or concerns about graduation, please contact the Los Angeles Student Services team: la.studentservices@smithchason.edu