SoN Convocation
Join us as we celebrate the incredible accomplishments of our graduating students at the School of Nursing Convocation and Awards Ceremony.
Date: Friday, June 5, 2026
Time: 6–8 p.m.
Location: Alaska Airlines Arena
🎓 Convocation Participation Steps – Complete The Following Steps
📅 Day-of Ceremony Information
What time should I arrive at Alaska Airlines Arena?
- 5 p.m. – Student check-in and doors open for guests.
- 6 p.m. – Procession begins.
Where do I check-in?
Students should check in at the loading dock of Alaska Airlines Arena at Hec Edmundson Pavilion. Follow the purple arrow shown on the map below to access the loading dock. Guests should enter through the arena’s main doors.
Parking & Drop-Off
For those attending the convocation ceremony, convenient parking is available nearby. The nearest visitor parking lot is E18, located just north of the Intramural Activities Building (IMA). From there, walk south toward Alaska Airlines Arena, where the ceremony will take place. Please allow extra time for traffic and parking.
The closest drop-off location is directly outside, between the Hec Ed Pavilion (Convocation venue) and the Intramural Activities (IMA), in Lot E97.
Parking passes (including ADA parking) for SoN Convocation should be purchased during the UW Commencement registration process.
Where can I store my belongings?
There is no storage of personal belongings, and bags are not allowed on the ceremony floor. Please leave them at home or with your guests prior to check-in. A fanny pack or cross-body bag that fits under your gown is a good way to keep valuables with you. You may bring a sealed water bottle with you.
Guest Bag Policies
Guests will pass through metal detectors. It is not necessary to remove cell phones, car keys or coins from pockets. Guests that are unable to undergo a metal detection searched due to medical reasons will be screened with a hand-held wand.
Each person is allowed one (1) clear bag and one (1) small clutch. The clear bag must be no larger than 12″ x 6″ x 12″, made of clear PVC vinyl, or a one-gallon Ziploc bag. The small clutch allows for privacy for small personal items and will also be searched. Every member of a party may carry in a permissible bag. Please note that bags that do not fit into this policy can be checked for $15/bag. For more information, please visit Clear Bag Policy – University of Washington Athletics.
Photography
Professional photos will be taken of each graduate as they cross the stage. Details about how to access your photos will be emailed after the event. Family and friends are welcome to take photos but must remain in designated areas.
🎓 Frequently Asked Questions
No—you do not have to participate in Convocation. This is an optional ceremony.
Yes—you must wear a cap and gown to participate in the ceremony. Please see the section on UW Commencement Registration for more information.
No—you do not need tickets for the School of Nursing Convocation ceremony, and your guests do not need to register.
No—there is no limit on the number of guests you may invite.
Yes—we will share a livestream link closer to the event date, and we will post a recording afterward.
Not yet. You must also register for the SoN Convocation ceremony.
No. Guests must remain seated in the audience and cannot participate in the processional or stage crossing.
Flowers are allowed. Balloons and animals (other than service animals) and noise makers are not allowed into the arena. For a full list of prohibited items, please visit Clear Bag Policy – University of Washington Athletics.
Strollers, wheelchairs and other mobility products are allowed inside the Areana and stroller parking will be just inside the North Entrance.
Please email us at sonceremony@uw.edu.