Virtual Commencement - FAQs | Culinary Institute of America

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Frequently Asked Questions about the CIA’s Virtual Commencement

While it’s not possible for us to gather in person to celebrate the tremendous accomplishments of our Spring 2020 graduating classes, we strongly believe that your achievements should be celebrated now. We have designed your commencement to give you a sense of how proud we are of each of you, and how much you mean to us.
How will the commencement work?
All graduating students will receive an e-mail with a Zoom link and instructions prior to the day of commencement. Families and friends will be able to view the live stream on the virtual commencement site and Facebook.
Do my friends and family have to view the commencement live, or can they view it at a later time?
The ceremonies will be archived and viewable on Facebook at any time.
Will I still receive my diploma, alumni jacket, cap and gown, and other items I would have received at the in-person ceremony?
We’re mailing a Mise en Place Care Package to your residence. This package includes your alumni jacket and cordon, or cap and gown, Alumni pin, honor stole (where appropriate), and a few fun items to help you celebrate. We hope you will wear these proudly during and after your ceremony.

In order to ensure your care package arrives on time please complete the registration form with your correct mailing address by the date specified.
Am I required to participate in the virtual commencement?
You’re not required to attend your commencement ceremony—but we hope you will—it wouldn’t be the same without you! You’ll also be able to watch the graduation via the virtual commencement site and Facebook. Recordings of the ceremonies will be archived on Facebook.
Can I still walk in a future ceremony?
Yes! We know many of you have looked forward to participating in the ceremony of walking across the stage, and we want you to have that opportunity. The registrar’s office will be in touch with Spring 2020 candidates regarding options to participate in future ceremonies once our campuses reopen. Virtual commencement will not prevent students from walking in the future.
Do I need to participate in the commencement to receive my diploma and graduation attire?
You do not need to participate in commencement to receive your diploma and graduation attire. Those items will be mailed to you. The Registrar confers degrees once all requirements are met, and diplomas will be mailed approximately six weeks after your commencement date. Your graduation jacket and cordon or your cap and gown will arrive prior to your ceremony date. Please be sure we have your correct mailing address on file, by completing the registration form.
Will I need a special Internet connection to access commencement?
You should be able to use any Internet connection, but a broadband or high-speed Internet connection is recommended for video viewing.
I have a question, who can help?
Your student affairs team is here for you. If you have any questions regarding your commencement, please them to:

New York campus commencement: studentaffairs@culinary.edu
California campus commencement: Ashley.Garcia@culinary.edu
Texas campus commencement: Gracie.Martinez@culinary.edu

Virtual Commencement FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions about the CIA’s Virtual Commencement