Commencement

Join us for Commencement Weekend May 8 - 9, 2026, as we celebrate the latest Concordia graduates!

Commencement Program

Will be provided closer to event date.

Campus Map

Commencement Live Stream

Will be provided closer to event date.

Watch the 2025 Sending Service

  

 

 

Commencement Weekend Schedule

Friday, May 8

Rehearsal 1 p.m.

Friedrich Arena

Sending Service for Church Work Graduates 3 p.m.

Weller Chapel

Baccalaureate Service 7 p.m.

St. John Lutheran Church, Seward, Neb. (across the street from Concordia)
University A Cappella Choir will perform at the end of the service. 

Saturday, May 9

Doors open 8 a.m.

Friedrich Arena (Inside Walz Human Performance Complex on Concordia's campus)

All Graduates Line Up for Processional 9:15 a.m.

Thom Leadership Education Center main floor

Commencement Ceremony 10 a.m.

Friedrich Arena

The ceremony will also be streamed online. Flowers and bouquets will be available for purchase. 
For everyone's safety, all bags will be subject to inspection upon entry. We kindly ask that you do not bring any prohibited or unsafe items. Thank you for your cooperation.

Luncheon

Janzow Campus Center

Following the commencement ceremony, a complimentary luncheon will be available in Janzow Campus Center for all graduates and their guests. 

FAQ

Is the baccalaureate service required? Can we just show up or do we need to register?

The baccalaureate service is optional. However, registration is requested for graduates planning to attend.

What events am I required to attend?

If you register for commencement, please ensure you attend. If your plans change, please both change your RSVP/registration in Blackboard and email the registrar at registrar@cune.edu.

When will I get my diploma?

Diplomas will be mailed to the most current address on file.

Is there reserved seating?

Due to the number of guests expected, reserved seating is not available. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. 

Seating on the concourse and in the Athletic Hall of Fame Room is reserved for guests with wheelchairs, walkers or other mobility needs. For safety and accessibility, personal seating such as camping chairs is not permitted in these areas.

Can I bring my bag or purse?

Yes. For everyone's safety, all bags will be subject to inspection upon entry. We kindly ask that you do not bring any prohibited or unsafe items. Thank you for your cooperation.

How long will the commencement ceremony last?

The commencement ceremony will last approximately 90 minutes.

Will there be a photographer to capture graduates receiving diplomas on stage?

There will not be a stage photographer. After the ceremony, graduates and their guests are encouraged to take photos on the field in Bulldog Stadium.

Can a graduate leave their stuff in Thom during the ceremony?

No, once you exit Thom, the building will be locked. If possible, please leave your things with a guest, or return them to your vehicle before the processional starts.

What if I’m a graduate and I cannot participate in the processional due to physical limitations?

Please contact the registrar's office at registrar@cune.edu to make alternative arrangements.

Does Seward have Uber or Lyft?

No, Seward does not have Uber, Lyft, or public transportation available.

Will Concordia's bookstore be open during commencement weekend?

The Concordia Bookstore (located in the lower level of Janzow Campus Center) will be open:

 

Thursday, May 8: 10 AM - 5 PM

Friday, May 9: 10 AM - 6 PM

Saturday, May 10: 8 AM - 3 PM