University of Rhode Island to celebrate fall graduates at new commencement ceremony Dec. 16

The University of Rhode Island will hold a new fall commencement ceremony on Saturday, Dec. 16, at 10 a.m., to celebrate undergraduate and graduate students who complete their degree requirements by the end of the current semester.

The celebration will be held at the Ryan Center on the Kingston Campus.

“We are excited to introduce this new tradition at the University of Rhode Island,” President Marc Parlange said. “For many of our recent graduates who completed their studies during the fall, it has been difficult to return to campus for the spring commencement ceremony. This new ceremony provides an opportunity for us to celebrate with them as a community.”

The new celebration does not replace the University’s spring commencement ceremonies, but, rather, introduces an additional ceremony to the annual commencement calendar. The occasion will feature one unified ceremony recognizing doctoral, master’s, and bachelor’s degree candidates. Spring ceremonies are set for

May 17 through 19, 2024. Graduates who participate in the fall ceremony may also return for the spring program.

More than 400 students are registered to participate in the December ceremony.

Parking and other information

Parking: Guests are asked to park in Lot 25 (Plains Road).

Ryan Center bag policy: Guests attending commencement will be subject to the standard Ryan Center bag policy and are permitted one clear plastic or vinyl bag that does not exceed 12”x6”x12”; or one clear drawstring bag not to exceed 12”x12”; or one, one-gallon clear plastic bag. A small clutch no larger than 4.5” x 6.5” may also be carried in addition to one clear bag. Diaper bags (with child) and bags approved for medical needs will be permitted after a search by security personnel. All other bags, backpacks, totes, and coolers are strictly prohibited. An exception will be made for empty plastic water bottles of up to 32 ounces.