Commencement Guide
DATE
May 16
Ceremony
6:00 PM
Check-In
Gym Breezeway
Last Call
5:30 PM
What to Wear
Flat or platform shoes recommended.
No stilettos or flip-flops.
Before You Arrive
Fully charge your phone.
Arrive early for check-in.
Leave Behind
Bulky bags.
Backpacks.
Ceremony Day Timeline
Use this schedule to plan your arrival, check-in, and post-ceremony meet-up.
4:00 PM
Graduate check-in opens in the Gym Breezeway
5:30 PM
Last call for check-in. Graduates should be in the RIGHT or LEFT line based on assigned seating
5:45 PM
Faculty lines move toward the entrance
5:50 PM
Student Marshals lead graduates toward the entrance
6:00 PM
Processional begins
6:25 PM
Graduates are seated and the ceremony begins
7:15 PM
Graduate names are called and diploma covers are presented on stage
8:00 PM
Graduates stand and turn their tassels
8:15 PM
Centennial Drone Show begins
8:20 PM
Faculty and graduates march out toward the Greek Theatre for the after party
For Graduates
Information for students participating in Commencement.
Ceremony Information
When and where is Commencement? What happens during the ceremony? What if it rains?
RSVP & Participation
RSVP details, eligibility, check-in, and diploma information.
Cap, Gown & Regalia
Cap and gown pickup, tassels, honors cords, announcements, and attire.
Parking & Arrival
Graduate check-in, parking, shuttle, and arrival expectations.
For Guests & Families
Information for family and friends attending Commencement.
Diplomas & Certificates
Graduates do not receive diplomas or certificates during the ceremony. Visit Admissions & Records for diploma information.
After the Ceremony
Graduates and guests can meet at the Greek Theatre after the faculty and graduate recessional.
Ceremony Information
When and where is the 2026 SBVC Commencement?
Date: Saturday, May 16, 2026
Place: SBVC Stadium
Doors Open: 5:00 PM
Ceremony: 6:00 PM
When is the Commencement Ceremony?
Saturday, May 16, 2026. Ceremony begins at 6:00 pm
What is expected of graduates during Commencement?
Graduating students may wear leis with their regalia when they check in only. Large and/or obtrusive items will not be allowed inside the stadium.
Commencement should be a happy memory for all our graduates and guests. The following rules of behavior will be enforced at the ceremony:
1. No smoking or alcoholic beverages allowed. Intoxicated students will not be allowed to participate in the ceremony
2. Please wear attire that is family-friendly (no foul language or graphic images). Those in violation of this rule will be asked to wear another clothing item or another layer of clothing. Please wear shoes and shirts during all events at SBVC Stadium.
3. Disruptive Items will not be allowed.
4. No items/gifts from outside. Ex. coolers, flowers, signs, noisemakers, leis, stuffed animals, and other restricted items (more details below)
5. Only clear bags will be allowed (more details below)
6. Marshals will provide directions for the following:
-
- Lining up
- Marching into the stadium (Processional)
- Seating
- Receiving diploma covers
- Keeping aisles clear to facilitate easy stage access
- Marching out of the stadium (Recessional)
- No purses or bags of any kind for the processional
To ensure the success of this special occasion, disruptive or inappropriate behavior will not be tolerated. Students must remain seated until the entire ceremony has concluded.
Safety Protocols
To ensure the safety and comfort of all participants and guests, SBVC will implement
a clear bag policy for all special events. We encourage all attendees to familiarize
themselves with and adhere to this policy before arriving at the stadium. Large purses
or bags not meeting the policy guidelines must be returned to vehicles.
Guests will be subject to search and metal detection upon entry. The following items are prohibited in the stadium: coolers, signs, noisemakers, and other obtrusive items.
Approved Bags:
- 12" x 6" x 12" Clear Plastic Bag
- 1 Gallon Plastic Freezer Bag
- Clutch with Shoulder Strap (clutch may not be larger than 4.5" X 6.5")
- Clutch with Wrist Strap (clutch may not be larger than 4.5" X 6.5")
- Diaper Bag, as long as accompanied by a child
Non-Approved Bags:
- Backpacks
- Camera Case
- Mesh Bag
- Tinted Plastic Bag
- Oversized Tote Bag
- Printed Pattern Plastic Bag
- Fanny Pack
- Binoculars Case
*Medically necessary items or equipment that cannot fit within the clear bag policy
should be presented for inspection at security. Public Safety personnel will evaluate
these items and determine if they can be permitted inside. Please note that security
staff have full discretion regarding which items are allowed into the stadium.
What if it rains?
The ceremony will continue as scheduled rain or shine. Guests are encouraged to bring umbrellas and/or raincoats in case of showers.
RSVP & Participation
How do I RSVP for Commencement 2026?
- Step 1: Confirm that you completed your Grad Check
- Step 2: Log into the SBVC Portal
- Step 3: Complete the Commencement RSVP Form
- Step 4: Attend Grad Rehearsal on Friday, May 15 at 9:00 am
Email: StudentLife@valleycollege.edu or come visit us in person
Location: 1st floor, Campus Center (Office of Student Life)
Hours: Monday to Thursday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Extended hours available by appointment for evening students.
Do graduates receive their diplomas/certificates at Commencement?
Cap, Gown & Regalia
Where do I pick up my cap and gown?
All graduates participating in the ceremony will be receiving their cap and gown for FREE.
- You can collect your regalia from the SBVC Bookstore starting Monday, April 20!
- You will need your SBVC Student ID Card or another form of valid photo ID
- If you are in any specialized programs (EOP&S, FYE, Veterans, Dreamers, etc.), please check your email for specific instructions about picking up your cap and gown.
I already paid for my cap and gown, can I receive a refund?
Yes. Simply bring in a proof of purchase from the Campus Bookstore. This could be the original receipt or a transaction that matches our records. Students who used a card can be looked up at our point of sale system.
Are tassels included with my cap and gown?
Yes, tassels are included with your cap and gown.
Are honors cords free and included with my cap and gown?
No, honor cords are not included with your cap and gown.
Honor cords will need to be purchased.
This includes special stoles and tassels from honor societies such as Alpha Gamma Sigma and Phi Theta Kappa.
What is the correct way to wear academic attire?
Graduates wear the tassel forward and to the right. The cap is worn with the long point of the shell to the rear.
At the conclusion of the program, graduates move their tassels to the left, thus signifying the conferring of the degree.
Graduates are kindly asked not to carry purses, bottles, balloons, etc. Water will be provided to graduates.
Guests: Please wear attire that is family-friendly (no foul language or graphic images). Those in violation of this rule will be asked to wear another clothing item or another layer of clothing.
Please wear shoes and shirts during all events at SBVC Stadium.
Where may I purchase Commencement Announcements?
Traditional San Bernardino Valley College Commencement Announcements may be purchased here.
Parking & Arrival
Do I need parking permits? Where do I park?Students are encouraged to be dropped off on campus. DROP OFF via Lot 10 and 11 (link to Google Maps)
ALL OTHER parking available at the Inland Center Mall, 66er Stadium, and in remote lots- Inland Center Mall (Google Maps)
- San Manuel Stadium (Google Maps)
- Remote Lots on I-Street (nearest to campus)
- FREE shuttles will be running from each remote parking lot to SBVC on May 16
Only guests and students who have accessibility or mobility needs and a valid handicap placard can park on campus.
- ADA parking and accessible seating will be available on campus (bring your handicap
parking placard)
- ADA Parking ONLY on Lot 8 (link to Google Maps)
- ADA Parking ONLY on Lot 9 (link to Google Maps)
After Party & Return Shuttles
- Graduates will exit from the stadium after the drone show
- Guests can meet their grads at the Greek Theatre where they can enjoy photo opportunities, refreshments, and music!
- Guests who want to leave ASAP can return to the shuttle pick-up (same place they were dropped off)
- Wristbands will determine return parking lots:
- Inland Center Mall (Green)
- San Manuel Stadium (Red)
- Remote Lots on I-Street (Blue)
- NO PICK UP or Ride-share from parking lots due to shuttles and ADA parking
Attending the Ceremony
What should I tell my guests is allowed and available in the stadium?
- No outside food or beverages allowed in the stadium (except water).
- No alcoholic beverages will be permitted or sold.
- Only clear bags will be allowed (see below).
- No items/gifts from outside (see below).
- No banners, signs, balloons, or any other items that block the view of guests may be carried into the stadium or hung on bleacher rails.
Clear Bag Policy
To ensure the safety and comfort of all participants and guests, SBVC has implemented
a clear bag policy for all special events. We encourage all attendees to familiarize
themselves with and adhere to this policy before arriving at the stadium. Large purses
or bags not meeting the policy guidelines must be returned to vehicles.
Guests will be subject to search and metal detection upon entry. The following items are prohibited in the stadium: coolers, flowers, signs, noise makers, leis, stuffed animals, and other restricted items. Any prohibited items may be seized or must be returned to vehicles.
Approved Bags:
- 12" x 6" x 12" Clear Plastic Bag
- 1 Gallon Plastic Freezer Bag
- Clutch with Shoulder Strap (clutch may not be larger than 4.5" X 6.5")
- Clutch with Wrist Strap (clutch may not be larger than 4.5" X 6.5")
- Diaper Bag, as long as accompanied by a child
Non-Approved Bags:
- Backpacks
- Camera Case
- Mesh Bag
- Purse
- Tinted Plastic Bag
- Oversized Tote Bag
- Printed Pattern Plastic Bag
- Fanny Pack
- Binoculars Case
*Medically necessary items or equipment that cannot fit within the clear bag policy should be presented for inspection at security. Public Safety personnel will evaluate these items and determine if they can be permitted inside. Please note that security staff have full discretion regarding which items are allowed into the stadium.
What about cameras? May we take pictures during the ceremony?
Only official photographers will be permitted in the graduates’ area.
GradImages will photograph each graduate at the ceremony, and proofs will be emailed and mailed after the ceremony.
GradImages pricing.
What if it rains?
The ceremony will continue as scheduled rain or shine. Guests are encouraged to bring umbrellas and/or raincoats in case of showers.
Parking & Accessibility
Do I need parking permits? Where do I park?
Students are encouraged to be dropped off on campus. DROP OFF via Lot 10 and 11 (link to Google Maps)
ALL OTHER parking available at the Inland Center Mall, 66er Stadium, and in remote lots- Inland Center Mall (Google Maps)
- San Manuel Stadium (Google Maps)
- Remote Lots on I-Street (nearest to campus)
- FREE shuttles will be running from each remote parking lot to SBVC on May 16
Only guests and students who have accessibility or mobility needs and a valid handicap placard can park on campus.
- ADA parking and accessible seating will be available on campus (bring your handicap
parking placard)
- ADA Parking ONLY on Lot 8 (link to Google Maps)
- ADA Parking ONLY on Lot 9 (link to Google Maps)
After Party & Return Shuttles
- Graduates will exit from the stadium after the drone show
- Guests can meet their grads at the Greek Theatre where they can enjoy photo opportunities, refreshments, and music!
- Guests who want to leave ASAP can return to the shuttle pick-up (same place they were dropped off)
- Wristbands will determine return parking lots:
- Inland Center Mall (Green)
- San Manuel Stadium (Red)
- Remote Lots on I-Street (Blue)
- NO PICK UP or Ride-share from parking lots due to shuttles and ADA parking
What accommodations are available for persons with disabilities?
The SBVC Stadium is accessible to individuals with disabilities.
Students participating in commencement who require accommodation can contact:
Student Accessibility Services - Michelle Crocfer
- Email: mcrocfer@valleycollege.edu
- Phone: 909-384-8668
- Video Phone for ASL: 909-332-5877
Watching Online
How can family and friends watch the ceremony online?
The stream will begin on the day of Commencement.
Watch Stream
For more information on Commencement, contact the Office of Student Life at
