Commencement Updates

Commencement is one of the most meaningful and highly anticipated events of the year, not only for our graduating seniors but for our entire Elmhurst University community. 

We take great pride in carefully planning and executing a memorable, high-quality commencement ceremony, and are always seeking ways to improve that experience for our graduates, their family and friends. In fact, over the years, the commencement ceremonies have evolved in response to feedback, changing needs and common sense.  

Next Spring, the university will pilot a new commencement experience. We’re pleased to share that the 154th Commencement ceremonies are scheduled to be held on Saturday, May 24, 2025, at the Rosemont Theatre, in nearby Rosemont, Ill.  

Having our commencement at the Rosemont Theatre will provide a number of benefits, including: 

• A more unifying commencement experience: Building a welcoming community extends to celebrating our graduates in a collective manner. The new venue will allow us to reduce from three to two ceremonies, allowing more of our students to celebrate together.  

• An elegant indoor setting not directly affected by weather: Graduates and guests will not be exposed to potentially extreme temperatures or other weather conditions. 

• Greater accessibility: The Rosemont Theatre is designed to be accessible for attendees with physical and mobility challenges, and includes ADA seating arrangements that will enable family members to sit together.  

• The continuation of Elmhurst traditions: Ceremonial commencement traditions such as the ringing of the Hash Bell, the processionals, the awarding of honorary degrees, and other parts of the program will take place as always.  

• The start of new traditions on campus: We understand that our graduating seniors feel a connection to campus that they will want to celebrate and remember. We will be working with campus groups to develop other ideas for celebrating our graduates on campus. 

Finally, a reminder that all degree-seeking students must apply for graduation. It is strongly suggested that students planning to graduate in Spring of 2025 apply as soon as possible, to ensure two terms to make any necessary schedule adjustments.  

Degree-seeking students can apply for graduation through Self-Service on the myElmhurst portal. (In the term prior to the student’s anticipated final semester, student-specific information will be available in Progress Notes on Self-Service.) 

Please share this information with your families. We look forward to carrying on our commencement traditions in a new and improved way, and also to starting new traditions as we celebrate the culminating event of your academic careers at Elmhurst University.  

How to Apply for Graduation

1. Log into Self Service via the myElmhurst Portal
2. Click Academics
3. Click Graduation Overview
4. Then click the link to apply and fill out your information

It is crucial that you apply for graduation regardless of whether or not you intend to walk in the ceremony. Applying for graduation ensures that your degree will be posted on time and that you have met all outstanding degree requirements.

It is suggested to apply at least one year prior to the anticipated graduation date, to ensure two full terms to make any necessary adjustments to schedules.