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Commencement

Winter Commencement Convocation
Friday, December 12, 2025
4:00 p.m. | North Park Gymnasium

Commencement ceremony changes beginning 2026–27

Please note that there are no changes to the December 2025 ceremony.

Dear Students,

As a Christian university, we mark significant milestones in the life of our community with gratitude, prayer, and celebration. Commencement is one of those sacred milestones—a moment when we honor your academic journey and achievements, celebrate God’s faithfulness, and launch you into your significant lives of service and leadership.

Beginning with the 2026–27 academic year, North Park University will host Commencement ceremonies in May only, discontinuing the winter (December) Commencement.

This decision reflects our commitment to providing an enhanced, more meaningful Commencement experience for all graduates.

Please note there are no changes to the December 2025 ceremony.  Commencement will be held for all December 2025 graduates on Friday, December 12, at 4:00 p.m. in the North Park Gymnasium, as planned.

What the Commencement Change Means for You

  • Students anticipating degree completion in summer 2026 will be invited to walk in the May 2026 Commencement.

  • Students anticipating degree completion in Fall 2026, Spring 2027, or Summer 2027 will be invited to participate in the May 2027 Commencement Ceremony.

  • The anticipated completion date for undergraduate students is projected to be the end of the fourth academic year. Students who are not on that original trajectory should connect with their academic advisors to ensure that anticipated completion dates are updated in our system.

  • Please be sure to complete a graduation application one year before you anticipate completing your degree.

  • We are here to answer all of your questions.  Please reach out to graduation@northpark.edu.

Growing Our Traditions

In addition to strengthening our Commencement service, we are developing new opportunities to engage with the Alumni Association and University Ministries.

We look forward to welcoming each graduate into the North Park Alumni Association, a community of thousands who continue to live out the North Park Promise in their workplaces, churches, and communities.

Graduates at all levels will be invited to participate in a Commencement Chapel Service (formerly known as the Baccalaureate Service) as part of their graduation experience.

Student Involvement

We are seeking three students representing the perspectives of undergraduate, graduate, and Seminary students to join the Commencement Planning Team, representing student perspectives as we shape these new experiences. If you are interested in serving in this way, or in sharing your thoughts, please utilize the Commencement Planning – Student Volunteer / Feedback Form

We are excited about this new chapter for Commencement at North Park and look forward to celebrating the Class of 2027 together—in one unified, joyful, and faith-filled ceremony.

In Christ,

Mary Surridge
President

November 3, 2025

Regalia and ticket distribution

1:00–4:00 p.m. | December 8 | Johnson Center, room 325

Graduates will receive their cap, gown, hood, honor cords (if applicable), phonetic name card, and four guest tickets. Distribution times will be assigned by last name and emailed in advance.

No additional tickets will be available. Each attending graduate may invite guests only within their allotted ticket limit. Graduates seeking extras must obtain them from peers who do not need their complete set of tickets.

If desired, you may purchase personalized Commencement announcements, a diploma frame, or a class ring from Jostens.

 

Commencement rehearsal

More information to come.

 

Commencement ceremony

4:00 p.m. | Friday, December 12 | North Park Gymnasium

Graduates should arrive in full regalia by 3:00 p.m. and assemble in the lower-level hallway near the former bookstore. Each graduate receives four guest tickets. Guests may enter 45 minutes before the ceremony.

 

Commencement procedures

Name pronunciation
To ensure your name is announced correctly during the ceremony, please follow the instructions emailed from Tassels to record your phonetic name pronunciation. This step is required for all graduates attending.

Accommodations
Guests needing accommodations may contact graduation@northpark.edu. Graduates requiring accommodations should contact ADA@northpark.edu.

Professional photography
GradImages are the professional photographers who will take photos at Commencement. Since professional photographs will be available, family members and guests are encouraged to remain in their seats, relax and enjoy the ceremony. Here’s what’s included:

  • GradImages will take a candid photograph of you at your special moment of recognition.
  • You’ll receive a free proof of this photo via email within 5 to 7 days following the ceremony.
  • You may place orders at GradImages.com once your PIN number has been provided to you via email or your proofs are received through the mail.
  • Orders may also be placed by phone at (800) 261-2576 or 001-641-472-8000 (outside the United States and Canada), or by mail using the order card included with your mailed proofs.
  • Upon receipt of your order, you can expect photos to be mailed to you within 5 to 7 days.

Live stream video
For family members or friends who are unable to attend, a live streaming video of the ceremony will be available at http://www.northpark.edu/live.

Parking
All campus parking lots will be open during Distribution, Rehearsal, and Commencement. Please see the attached Campus Map for all parking lot locations.

Diplomas and transcripts

Diplomas are mailed after all grades are submitted, administrative requirements are complete, and degree conferral is finalized. Learn more about diplomas and graduated status.

Transcripts may be requested at any time through the National Student Clearinghouse Transcript Services.

North Park University does not keep copies of diplomas on file. Replacement diplomas may be ordered through the University for $35 by completing the Diploma Reorder Request Form and returning it to Student Services. All requests must be submitted in writing and include your legal name. If you have an outstanding balance, processing may be delayed.