Students: Convocation: Thompson Rivers University

Convocation program

The convocation program is a public document that lists graduates of all programs. If you don't want your name included in the program, please email graduation@tru.ca.

Regalia (cap, gown and stole)

Regalia is ordered through Gasprad for a non-refundable fee of $55. Once your attendance is confirmed, you will receive a link to order your regalia. Regalia must be pre-ordered to participate in the ceremony.

Regalia must not leave campus and must be returned 90 minutes after the ceremony ends. Graduands not returning regalia will be invoiced for the full replacement costs.

Take weather conditions into consideration, and ensure that your footwear is comfortable.

Arrival and check-in procedure

Arrive 90 minutes before the ceremony at the Tournament Capital Centre.

Look for the check in station. You will be directed from there.

Check in and receive your gowning card.
Proceed to the gowning room.
Pick up your name card, which you will hand to the usher on stage.
Proceed to the academic procession lineup.

Those requiring mobility assistance, interpreters, or other assistance must make prior arrangements by email ceremonies@tru.ca.

Disability accommodations

The university, upon request, will provide accommodation services for convocating students with disabilities.

Students with disabilities who are convocating or persons with disabilities who are a member of the convocating student’s family should email ceremonies@tru.ca.

Academic procession

Once you have gone through the check-in stations, you will line up in alphabetical order near the sign for your program. Convocation assistants will help you. Make sure you keep your name card for handing to the stage usher.

The academic procession is scheduled to start punctually. It is led by the registrar, the platform party, faculty and graduands. Faculty marshals in full regalia lead each section of the procession.

Walking across the stage

When it is time to cross the stage, you will be escorted by an usher. You must bring your name card so your name can be announced on stage. Hand your name card to the usher on the stage.

Photography on convocation day

Tyler Meade Photography provides professional photography as you cross the stage and will have a studio set up at the ceremony to allow you to take photos with your family or friends.

While waiting to go on stage, look for the photographer in front of the stage, and watch the procedure for taking your photograph. There will be tape on the stage floor marking where you should stand for the photograph.

You will be emailed a link with an ticket code within two weeks after the ceremony to access your photos.

For more information visit Tyler Meade Photography.

Credentials (certificates, diplomas, degrees)

Students who attend the convocation ceremony, and who have met all the requirements for graduation, will receive their credentials as they come off the stage.

Students who cannot attend will receive their credentials by mail.

TRU Alumni

TRU Alumni is an active participant in convocation ceremonies. Following each ceremony, you and your family will be invited to join us in the TRU Gymnasium for the new Alumni Welcome Reception.

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to register to participate in the convocation ceremony?

Yes. If you have completed your studies, applied to graduate and wish to have your name in the printed program for the ceremony, you must also register for convocation either online or at the Registrar's Office before the displayed dates. If you have outstanding fees or fines you will not be eligible to receive your credential and should contact the Registrar's Office.

I received my credential in the mail today, but I would still like to attend the next convocation ceremony. What do I receive at the ceremony?

You received your credential in the mail because you graduated earlier in the year. You are welcome to apply to participate in the ceremony, and at the ceremony you will receive a certificate of participation.

I am unable to attend the convocation ceremony but would like to receive my credential. How do I apply?

If you are unable to attend the ceremony, the Registrar’s Office will mail your credential providing you have fulfilled the requirements to graduate. Ensure you have applied to graduate.

Is regalia provided to me for the convocation ceremony?

Regalia is ordered through Gaspard for a non-refundable fee of $55. Once your attendance is confirmed, you will receive a link to order your regalia. Regalia must be pre-ordered to participate in the ceremony and must be returned within 90 minutes after the ceremony. If you do not return your gown, we will invoiced full replacement cost.

What should I wear under my regalia?

Wear comfortable shoes that are suitable for the procession and weather conditions. TRU uses black gowns and caps, so black shoes, slacks, dress or skirt will blend with the regalia.

Can I rent regalia for arranging my own photographs?

Yes. To rent a gown, visit Gaspard.

I will be participating in convocation, but I am having mobility problems, and am only able to stand or walk for brief periods of time. What is the best way to alleviate my concerns?

If you wish to be in the procession, we will arrange a chair for you in the procession waiting line. You are welcome to check in and gown early, then go directly to the stage seating. We can arrange for someone to accompany you, or you may bring a guest to assist you. Please tell the ushers of your concerns.

Students with disabilities who are graduating or persons with disabilities who are a member of the graduating student’s family should contact ceremonies@tru.ca if accommodation or access provisions are required.

Are graduates limited to a certain number of guests at the ceremony?

You are limited to six guests. Doors will open one hour prior to ceremony start time and seats are on a first-come basis. Tickets are not required.

I have an elderly guest who wants to attend the ceremony and requires family assistance. What arrangements are made for guests who require assistance from their friends or family?

Guests who require mobility assistance may park in parking spots assigned for disabled. However, for events that have high traffic, these spaces may not be available. We suggest family or friends come early or drop off their guest close to the venue. There is reserved seating for disabled and one or two accompanying guests.