Norfolk State University Commencement Ceremony 

May 10, 2025

Important Commencement Facts

Ceremony Venue

The 114th Commencement Ceremony will be held in William “Dick” Price Stadium. The stadium gates will open to the general public at 7 a.m. 

**In the event of inclement weather, the ceremony will be moved into Joseph G. Echols Memorial Hall. All guests must have a ticket to enter the venue. Tickets are only distributed to qualified graduating students and are only necessary if there is inclement weather.

Tickets

Tickets are not required for the commencement ceremony as it will be held in William “Dick” Price Stadium. Tickets are only required if there is inclement weather, and the ceremony is moved inside. Each graduate receives six (6) rain tickets for the ceremony. All guests over the age of 2 years old must have a ticket to enter Echols Hall. No extra tickets are available. Graduates do not need a ticket for the ceremony.

Guest Seating

Seating is available on a first come, first served basis. No saving of seats is permitted. All guests will be required to sit in the stands including those guests requiring handicapped seating. Seating on the field is reserved for graduates and faculty. 

Safety and Security

For the safety and security of all participants and attendees, guests will be required to enter through security check points. Guests will be subject to metal detectors and/or wanding upon entry into Price Stadium. 

For your safety and smooth entry into the graduation area, it is recommended to use clear see-through bags and small clutch bags that are approximately the size of your hand. No weapons of any kind are permitted on campus. Please do not bring any prohibited items. 

Bag Policy

NSU strongly encourages guests to not bring any type of bags. However, guests can bring the following style and size bag, package, or container: 

• Bags that are clear plastic, vinyl or PVC and do not exceed 12” x 6” x 12.” No buckles, grommets/hardware or decor can conceal any part of the bag. The bag must be all clear.
• One-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (Ziploc bag or similar). 
• Small clutch bags, approximately the size of a hand, with or without a handle or strap can be taken into the arena with one of the clear plastic bag options.

Please note that all bags are subject to search by NSU Police.

The following items are prohibited: noise makers, confetti, balloons, inflatables, backpacks, weapons to include fireworks, firearms, sticks, clubs, knives of any length, and other weapons.

Alternate Ceremony Viewing Options

• On campus viewing option: L. Douglas Wilder Performing Arts Center. Doors open at 7:30 a.m. No tickets are needed for the Wilder Center.
• Off campus viewing option: Guests may view the ceremony at www.nsu.edu.

Parking and Shuttle Services

Norfolk State University makes every effort to accommodate guests with mobility challenges. We want our patrons to have a positive memorable on-campus experience. Parking attendants will be on hand to provide assistance and guidance. 

• All parking lots will be open and available for guests except for Lot 8 at Echols Hall. 
• Limited handicapped parking will be available to guests on a first come, first serve basis. Parking will not be available at Echols Hall. 
• Lots 9, 11 & 12 have been designated as handicapped lots for the commencement ceremony. Once these lots reach capacity, guests will be directed to other lots for parking. To gain access to the designated handicapped parking lots, enter the NSU Campus via Gate 8 (located off the Ballentine Ave and/or MiddleTowne Arch).  
• Shuttle services will be available to transport guests to/from parking lots to Price Stadium. Guests will have to walk to the nearest shuttle stop for pick-up. Shuttles services will begin at 7 a.m. 

NOTE:  Please be advised that it is a lot of walking; therefore, it is recommended that guests with mobility challenges use walking assistive devices such as wheelchairs, scooters, etc. to and from Price Stadium.