Guests with Special Needs
Attention Class of 2010: This page has not yet been updated to reflect 2010 dates and information. Since many of the details will be similar to the 2009 information below, we recommend that you use the information to get a general idea of the responsibilities and activities surrounding Commencement. Please check back for updated 2010 information as it becomes available.
The Commencement experience involves events both inside and outside, on grass and pavement, in temporary/permanent event venues across campus. Emory is committed to removing barriers, whenever possible, so that all graduates and guests can enjoy the Commencement exercises. We need your help in identifying those who need special services or accommodations so that we may plan accordingly.
PARKING UPDATE (May 1, 2009): In addition to marked handicap accessible parking spaces in other lots and decks, the Peavine Lot (adjacent to the Peavine Parking Decks) will be reserved for vehicles with valid handicap parking permits.
Students and guests, if you have persons in your party (family and friends) who are unable to walk long distances, who use wheelchairs, or who have other special needs, you may complete the Special Services form. We can provide up to two tickets admitting the guest--and one accompanying person--to a special seating area. These will be mailed beginning April 15, 2009.
We must receive all seating requests by May 2.
We work with the Office of Disability Services to identify students who need assistance at Commencement. Even if you are registered with their office, we encourage you to fill out the form yourself so that we can ensure that proper arrangements are made.
THE TICKETS REQUEST FORM HAS CLOSED. THE DEADLINE FOR REQUESTS WAS MAY 2. UNFORTUNATELY WE ARE UNABLE TO PROCESS ANY ADDITIONAL REQUESTS.
Requests received after May 2 and telephone requests cannot be honored.
Please note: Emory does not provide wheelchairs to rent or borrow. A list of vendors for wheelchair rentals is posted on this site. For those arriving with their own wheelchairs, know that all parking decks are wheelchair accessible, but the wheelchair-accessible shuttles cannot reach the Fishburne parking deck. See the parking,shuttles, and maps page for more information.
The temperature on Commencement Day can vary greatly from chilly morning air, to blazing mid-afternoon sun, depending on the weather. Please be sure to bring sunscreen and water if heat is expected, and take care to assess whether elderly guests in your party will be able to remain comfortable throughout the day with significant travel distances and outside events.
Helpful Links
- Special Needs Ticket Request Form (CLOSED)
- Wheelchair Vendors
- Parking, Shuttles, and Maps
