Published: March 4, 2021

CU Boulder will hold a livestreamed commencement ceremony at noon (MDT) on May 6 to recognize the many accomplishments of our graduates. In addition, as part of Grad Appreciation Days, students are invited to attend several in-person opportunities leading up to the virtual commencement events.

These in-person events will be for graduating students only. Families and friends will not be able to attend. All in-person opportunities will follow the campus Events & Activities Policy. 

Campus photo opportunities

Graduating students will have the opportunity to take photos at several iconic campus locations such as Farrand Field, Varsity Pond, Old Main, Buffalo Plaza and more. A complete list of locations will be provided in advance, and students will be encouraged to share their “selfie” moments on social media using #ForeverBuffs.  

Photo opportunities will be available from April 19–29. Registration is not required.  

Cross the stage

During the last week in April, students will have a unique opportunity to cross the stage on Folsom Field as a way to commemorate the occasion of graduation. The event will include college and school giveaways, a Forever Buffs class of 2021 gift, presentation of your diploma cover and professionally-taken photographs.  

Registration for a specific date and time will be required. Register for your slot. This opportunity will not be available on May 6, the day of the livestreamed commencement ceremony. 

Get your regalia

After applying to graduate, getting your regalia is next on your checklist. Regalia is available now in the CU Book Store and online through Jostens, and we encourage you to purchase in advance.   

Grad Appreciation Days will include a fair-style opportunity to purchase your cap and gown, pick up various cords and stoles, sign the class of 2021 Forever Buffs banner and even decorate your cap in a COVID-safe environment at the University Memorial Center. Specific dates and times will be announced in the coming weeks.   

College, school and department ceremonies

Individual colleges, schools and departments will also be celebrating the class of 2021 with virtual recognition ceremonies following the livestreamed commencement ceremony. Students should contact their individual college, school or department for more information on specific plans. Details will also be updated on the commencement website.

FAQ

No. The campus photo opportunities are designed to be “selfie”-like and do not require registration.

Yes. You will have to register to cross the stage. After you register, you will be provided details on where to arrive, how to check in and how the process will work. The stage will be on Folsom Field, which is the traditional site of the in-person university commencement ceremony. This is a unique opportunity for the class of 2021, as in a typical year, students would cross the stage at their college, school and department ceremonies, rather than on Folsom Field. 

Yes. College, school and department ceremonies will be held virtually this spring, and will not be providing a stage-crossing experience for their graduates.

Yes. There will be numerous slots per hour spanning multiple days for students to sign up to cross the stage on Folsom Field. We are confident there will be enough availability for students who wish to participate.

Yes. Participation in these events is at no cost to the graduating student. If you wish to purchase professional, commemorative photos, you will have the opportunity to do so.

No. We encourage soon-to-be graduates to wear academic regalia for their photos, but it is not required. 

Campus COVID policies will apply to all events, including the campus photo opportunities. Masks and a minimum of 6 feet of physical distancing will be required. Students will be permitted to remove their mask when on-stage at Folsom Field.

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