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Commencement

Accessibility

Commencement Accessibility Information

Graduates and guests with disabilities or those requiring other accommodations for Commencement on Sunday, May 12, 2024, will find information below on special-needs parking, seating, alternative viewing options and more.

A special Commencement parking hangtag is REQUIRED for accessible parking. Online registration is now closed. Please email your request to Commencement@rutgers.edu to obtain a special needs parking pass.

For accessibility information for School Convocation ceremonies, please contact the graduate's school.

Accordion Content

    • There are two special-needs parking zones:
      • Scarlet Zone, the parking area next to stadium Gates A and B.
      • Livingston Orange Zone
        • Near Jersey Mike's Arena
        • Serviced by a shuttle bus designated for special-needs guests and one companion. 
    • It is critical to follow the driving directions provided in the parking mailing in order to reach special-needs parking.
    • All roads are not open on campus.
    • Some on-campus traveling will still be required.

    Online registration is now closed. Please email your request to commencement@rutgers.edu to obtain a special needs parking pass.

  • Bring Your Own Assistive Device

    • Rutgers University does not supply assistive devices.
    • If you require a wheelchair or other device for mobility, you must bring it with you. 
    • There is considerable amount of on-site travel required to move from the parking lot to your seat in the stadium. 
    • Walkers, wheelchairs, and scooters are permitted in SHI stadium.
    • Special-needs seating is designated at street level and the two rows below. 
    • Seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
    • Once in a seat, event staff will provide individuals and one companion with tickets to sit in the special-needs seating section. 
    • Only one companion may join the special-needs guest in this designated seating area. Other members of your party may sit in rows near to, but not in, the special-needs seating area.
  • Interpretation services are available for guests with hearing disabilities.

    • Closed captioning on the scoreboard.
    • American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter in seating section 111.

    For questions related to special-needs accommodations at Commencement, please call (848) 932-2469 or email commencement@rutgers.edu.

  • Rutgers University is proud to be an Aira Access Partner, providing free visual interpreting services throughout the Rutgers—New Brunswick campus. Any student, staff, faculty, or visitor can use Aira for free on a smartphone simply by downloading the Aira app and connecting with an agent.  

    Learn more about Aira on the Office of Disability Services website.

    • Service animals, as defined by the American with Disabilities Act (ADA), are allowed at the ceremony.
    • All other animals are prohibited from Commencement.
    • Visit the ADA website for details.
    • Livestreaming Webcast: View Commencement online on May 12. 
    • Indoor Viewing at Student Centers:
      • Busch Student Center, Livingston Student Center, or College Avenue Student Center
        • Rooms have air conditioning and cushioned seats.
        • Restrooms and limited concessions will be open.
        • Curbside drop-off available at student centers.
        • No tickets are required, and seating is general admission.

EVENT ACCESSIBILITY STATEMENT

Rutgers University strives for our campus experiences to be universally designed and useable by all people to the extent possible. If you require an accommodation to participate in this event, please contact the Commencement Office at commencement@rutgers.edu or call (848) 932-2469 by May 1, 2024.

If you need an accommodation for Commencement, please provide the name of the event; the date; and the accommodation required in your correspondence to the event organizer.

Rutgers University complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding non-discrimination, equal opportunity, affirmative action, and providing reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities.