Subscribe to Pittwire Today
Get the most interesting and important stories from the University of Pittsburgh.Winter commencement at the University of Pittsburgh is a recognition and celebration of every graduate’s hard work and perseverance — their success helps make Pitt possible.
This year’s University-wide ceremony will be held Sunday, Dec. 14, at 3 p.m. at the Petersen Events Center on the Pittsburgh campus. Pittwire has your guide to making the most of your day — from where to park to how to get into the venue. Read on to find all you need to know for an effortless celebration, whether you need tips for getting around the city or want to watch at home.
Find the latest updates for graduates and guests alike on Pitt’s commencement site. Plus, you can get timely information and live coverage when you follow @PittCommencement on Instagram.
Tickets
Each registered graduate will receive four free electronic guest tickets via Ticketmaster. Tickets will be distributed the week of Dec. 8 and must be claimed by Thursday, Dec. 11. Graduates may request two additional tickets, but supplementary tickets are not guaranteed. If a graduate is issued additional tickets, they will be granted at the time they receive their initial four guest tickets.
Guests must present mobile tickets for entry — paper tickets and screenshots will not be accepted. Find instructions for claiming and transferring guest tickets.
[Read more: A global competitiveness expert will deliver Pitt’s winter commencement address.]
Parking
All University parking garages and lots will be free and open to guests and graduates on commencement day.
Shuttle services
A free shuttle service will take graduates and their families around campus and pre-determined surrounding areas both before and after the ceremony.
Entering the venue
All entrances to the Petersen Events Center will open at 1 p.m. and are fully accessible.
Guests may enter the venue either through the Thomas E. Richards Family Lobby entrance near the corner of De Soto and Terrace streets or the Concourse A entrance on Allequippa Street.
Graduates, you must enter through the Zoo Entrance, by the Panthers Ticket Office, on Terrace Street. Arrive in your regalia and with a printed name announcement card in hand — this serves as your entry ticket. A digital version of your name announcement card on any device will not be accepted.
Still need regalia?
Order online for in-store pick up at the University Store on Fifth. Direct shipping is also available. Check with the University Store for shipping rates and arrival times.
Seating
Guest seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. For attendees in need of assistance, there are ushers in place to help guests locate accessible seating areas. Accessible seating is available on all levels along the back of each section at the Petersen Events Center. Guests with mobility concerns can also sit in limited mobility seating rows that require minimal stair climbing.
Security
To ensure a safe and efficient entry process, the Petersen Events Center enforces a strict clear bag policy. Exceptions will be made for medical and diaper bags and video equipment — cameras, GoPros, Gimbals, selfie sticks, DJIs and cameras with detachable lenses — upon inspection at designated screening entrances.
Other permitted items include clutch purses measuring 4.5x6.5 inches (approximately the size of a hand) or smaller and empty poster tubes.
Livestream
For friends and family unable to attend in person, a livestream of the ceremony will be available on Pitt’s commencement site.
Photography
Professional photographers will capture each graduate’s moment on stage. Photos will be available for purchase from GradImages following the ceremony. There will also be photo pop-ups around the arena and the Pittsburgh campus for graduates and guests — don’t forget to take your picture with the Pitt Panther outside William Pitt Union.
Share your memories
Celebrate and share your graduate’s accomplishments on @PittOfficial social media channels by using #PittGrad and, of course, #H2P. Congratulations, graduates!
Photography by Johnathan Wright