1. What is Commencement?
Commencement is the main NMJC graduation ceremony.
2. When is Commencement?
Commencement is scheduled for Friday, May 9, 8:00 p.m. The processional line-up
begins about an hour earlier. For more information, scroll down to When and
Where do I go for the processional line-up?
3. Where will it be held?
Lea County Event Center, Lovington Highway, south of the New Mexico Junior College
campus
4. Will I be recognized individually?
All degree candidates will process across the stage to be recognized individually
and will be given a diploma cover but not a diploma. The actual diploma will
be mailed.
5. How long does it last?
The commencement ceremony will last at least one hour.
6. Am I eligible to participate?
Check with the Registrar’s Office, 575.392.5112.
7. How do I participate?
You need to complete the Graduation Application.
8. Are tickets required for graduates or guests?
Tickets are not required of graduates or their guests, and there is no limit
to the number of guests a graduate may invite.
9. When and where do I go for the processional line-up?
At 7:30 p.m. candidates line up behind the stage area on the main floor.
10. Will there be a rehearsal?
The rehearsal is held Thursday, May 8, at 9:00 a.m. at the Event Center.
11. Why are chairs for graduates so close together?
Fire restrictions require us to have the chairs on every row tied to each other.
Therefore, seating is tight and cannot be changed.
12. Why is the ceremony the date and time it is?
The time and date has proven to be the most convenient for the majority of participants.
13. Is there a reception?
Yes. A reception will be held prior to the Commencement Ceremony in the Banquet
Room at the Event Center. Candidates and their guests are invited to come and
visit with NMJC faculty and staff.
14. What time is the reception?
The reception is from 5:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m.
15. Who do I contact for special accommodations?
Graduates attending the Commencement Ceremony who need special accommodations
should indicate the nature of the accommodations needed when completing the
Graduation Application. Please be sure to provide contact information so that
we may contact you directly. If you have any questions, please call the Registrar’s
Office.
16. Will my name be in the program?
The program will list the names of only those students who have completed the graduation application and have been approved for graduation.
Your name will be listed as it exists in your student record. If you have changes to your name, please notify you’re the Registrar’s Office and be sure you have the correct information on your Graduation Application. The program will be sent to the typesetter several weeks before the ceremony, and once that happens no changes in the program are possible.
IMPORTANT: Your name will be printed in the program unless you indicated otherwise on the Graduation Application.
17. Where do I get my cap and gown?
Caps and gowns are required in order to participate in the Commencement Ceremony and can be purchased at the NMJC Bookstore. GradFest is scheduled on campus, so students can order all of their graduation paraphernalia.
COMMENCEMENT IS A FORMAL ACADEMIC CEREMONY. ALTHOUGH YOU WEAR ACADEMIC REGALIA, YOU ARE ENCOURAGED TO WEAR APPROPRIATE ATTIRE AND FOOTWEAR UNDER YOUR GOWN.
18. Which side does my tassel go on?
Before graduating, the tassel should be on your right. After all graduates are
individually recognized, the Master of Ceremonies will instruct you to move
your tassel to the left.
Questions regarding your diploma should be directed to Records and Registration at 575.392.5112 or by e-mail to jperry@nmjc.edu.
19. When will I receive my diploma?
You will NOT receive your diploma at the graduation ceremony. Unless you specify
your diploma to be held for pick-up, it will be mailed to you in late May.
20. Are certificates awarded at commencement?
Certificates are awarded at commencement. Those who will be receiving these
certificates need to contact the Registrar’s Office to complete the Graduation
Application.
21. Can I get additional copies of my diploma?
Yes, you may order a duplicate copy of your diploma by contacting the Office
of Records and Registration directly. However, there will be a fee of $25.00
for each additional copy.
22. Can my diploma be mailed to an international address?
Yes. There is no additional fee for this.
23. Can I have a friend or parent pick up my diploma on my behalf?
Yes, that is possible. Your friend or parent needs a signed letter from you
authorizing him/her to pick it up on your behalf. Please remember to include
your Student ID number in your authorization letter.
If you have additional questions, please contact the Registrar’s Office.