Jun 09, 2017 2:31 pm

The big day is almost here for many of you! Here is a rundown on everything you need to know to be prepared for graduation day on June 16.

Be sure to pick up your cap and gown starting on Monday, June 5 at the bookstore on the Puyallup or Fort Steilacoom campuses. You can choose the size when you pick up your cap and gown.

Commencement Day

The ceremony starts at 2:30 p.m. on June 16, and doors open at 1:30 p.m. The festivities are taking place in the main arena of the Tacoma Dome, located at 2727 East D St. in Tacoma. Tickets are not required for admission.

Please be aware that Tacoma’s Tall Ships Festival is taking place the same day, so heavy traffic is expected on all routes leading to the Tacoma Dome. Please anticipate traffic delays and allow yourself enough time to arrive on time.

Commencement Speaker

Shaunta Hyde – Managing Director of Community Relations at Alaska Airlines and Chair of the State Board for Community and Technical Colleges.

Directions to the Tacoma Dome

From Olympia on I-5 Going North

Take Exit 133. Follow ramp on East 26th St. Take a right. Tacoma Dome signs will direct you to parking lots.

From Seattle on I-5 Going South

Take Exit 135. The ramp will put you on East 27th Street. Tacoma Dome signs will direct you to parking lots.

Parking

There is a $15 parking fee per vehicle, so we recommend that you carpool if possible.

Venue Accessibility Information

Accommodations for Graduates with Disabilities

American Sign Language interpreters will be provided, and the Tacoma Dome has accessible parking throughout the parking lots. Graduates needing additional accommodation due to a disability can contact Susan McPhee, Access and Disability Services Manager, at (253) 964-6527 or smcphee@pierce.ctc.edu. Graduates should check in with the volunteer staff at the Access and Disability Services (ADS) table at graduation.

Accommodations for Guests with Disabilities

American Sign Language interpreters will be provided, and the Tacoma Dome has accessible parking throughout the parking lots. Guests needing additional accommodation due to a disability can contact Susan McPhee, Access and Disability Services Manager, at (253) 964-6527 or smcphee@pierce.ctc.edu. Tacoma Dome staff can assist with finding accessible seating at the event and direct those to the reserved section for those using the interpreting services.

Diplomas

Attendance at graduation is encouraged but not required. Diplomas are not issued at the ceremony. Official diplomas will be mailed directly to the graduate approximately 10-12 weeks after the quarter in which requirements have been completed and verified.