Commencement
We can't wait to celebrate our 78th Commencement. The following are important details to note.
WHEN
Saturday, May 31, 2025, at 10 a.m.
WHERE
MassMutual Center
1277 Main St.
Springfield, Massachusetts 01103
NOTE: Due to construction, all graduates and guests should enter the MassMutual Center through the Convention Center entrance on Main Street.
The Civic Center Parking Garage is currently under construction, plan extra time for parking. Free parking is available at MGM Springfield. Parking is also available at the I-91 South Garage for a fee. ADA parking is available on several streets surrounding the MassMutual Center. Click here to view the ADA parking map.
WHAT
The recipient of the 2025 Elaine Marieb Faculty Award for Teaching Excellence will lead the procession of faculty, staff, and graduates into the MassMutual Arena and give the keynote address.
The Student Speaker (Orator) and Student Performer applications will open in April, and the deadline to apply is Friday, April 25, 2025, by midnight. Keep an eye out for the application in your HCC email.
The Class Gift Presenter and Distinguished Service Award Winner will also be announced.
STEPS TO PREPARE FOR COMMENCEMENT
STEP 1: Graduation Application/Audit Process
Spring 2025 graduates will begin to be cleared for graduation in February. Clearance will take several weeks; however, once you have been cleared, you will see a party hat icon 🎉 in DegreeWorks and receive an email notification from the HCC Student Records Office.
If you do not see the icon or receive an email by April 7, 2025, and believe you should be graduating in Spring 2025, please submit a graduation application.
Summer 2025 graduates will begin to be cleared for graduation after April 7. If you do not see the icon or receive an email by May 13, 2025, and believe you should be graduating in Summer 2025, please submit a graduation application.
Graduation is contingent upon the successful completion of all degree/certificate requirements.
STEP 2: Are you cleared to graduate for Spring or Summer 2025?
Stop by the Student Records table for assistance during Wednesday's 11 am - 12:15 pm activity periods on April 9th, April 16th and May 7.
They can review your record on the spot or help you with ordering your official transcript!
**When you stop by the Student Records table you will also be placed into a drawing to receive a FREE official transcript!**
STEP 3: SAVE THE DATE!
What: Cap & Gown Pick-Up Celebration
When: Tuesday, May 20, 2025, from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Where: Campus Center Cafeteria
This event includes:
- picking up your FREE cap and gown, honor tassel(s), and special program cords(s);
- A photo opportunity with President Timmons and the Cougar;
- materials to decorate your cap;
- free food;
- … and more!!
STEP 4: Get excited to walk across the stage at Commencement!
All graduation candidates are invited to attend Commencement! Whether you are earning a degree or certificate—fall, spring, or summer graduates—all are welcome to celebrate this milestone.
Seating is unlimited, so bring your entire support system to cheer you on! CONGRATULATIONS!
