The CPHS Doctoral Hooding & Commencement Ceremony will take place at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 16th, 2026. Below are the details to help you prepare. If you need additional information, your plans change, or you have any questions, please contact the Office of the Registrar at graduation@drake.edu.

Event Details:

• Graduates arrive by: 2:00 p.m. (Bell Center)
• Ceremony Start Time: 3:00 p.m. (Knapp Center)
• Location: Students will assemble in the Bell Center and process to the Knapp Center for the ceremony.

Ceremony Duration:

• The ceremony typically lasts between 75 minutes.
   

Important Guidelines:

• Attire Restrictions: No decorations, such as flowers, jewelry, or signs, are allowed on academic caps or gowns.
• Personal Items: Graduates may not carry any personal items into the Knapp Center other than their name card.
• Alcohol Prohibited: The consumption of alcohol is strictly prohibited. Marshals and staff are authorized to confiscate any alcoholic beverages.
• Prohibited Items: Helium balloons, silly string, and similar items are not allowed in the Knapp Center.