Commencement Ceremony Information

Graduation is not the end of your journey...

it's only the beginning!


WHEN & WHERE?

Commencement 2026 Ceremony

Date: Friday, May 8th, 2026
Time: 9:00 AM
Location: Lanier Technical College – Hall Campus Quadrangle
Address: 2535 Lanier Tech Drive, Gainesville, GA 30507
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WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN GRADUATION & COMMENCEMENT?

  • Graduation refers to the completion of your academic program and is required to receive your official credential.
  • Commencement is the formal walking ceremony held annually in May. Participation is optional.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO PARTICIPATE?

  • Students completing Associate Degrees, Diplomas, or Technical Certificates of Credit in Summer 2025, Fall 2025, or Spring 2026 are eligible to participate.

FEES:

  • A $40 non-refundable, non-transferable commencement fee is required to participate in the ceremony.
  • The fee will be posted to your student account within three (3) business days after you register.
  • Deadline to pay: March 2, 2026, by 11:59 PM — No exceptions.
  • This fee does not include the cost of the cap and gown therefore supports ceremony-related expenses.

HOW DO I REGISTER TO PARTICIPATE & WHAT IS THE PROCESS?

  1. Verify your student information through LTC Experience (formerly Banner Web)
    • LTC Experience (formerly Banner Web) > Student Record > My Profile
    • Update your contact information here: Change of Address Form
  2. Complete the Application for Credential — required for all potential graduates. Refer to the academic calendar for semester deadlines.
    • Please note, that applying for your credential after the Priority Credential Deadline may result in the student’s name not appearing in the printed Commencement program
  3. Submit the Commencement Ceremony Registration form by March 2, 2026 by 11:59 PM.
  4. Pay the mandatory $40 non-refundable fee once it appears on your account by March 2, 2026 by 11:59 PM. No exceptions!
  5. Order black cap & gown fonly from designated vendors, which will be provided by email.
    • The fee does not include the purchases of caps/gowns. Students are responsible for paying for their regalia.

TICKETS:

  • Tickets are not required.
  • You may invite unlimited guests — the event is outdoors on the Quad.
  • Guest arrival time: Between 7:30 AM and 8:15 AM.
  • Seating is first-come, first-served.

ATTIRE:

  • Please dress formally — options include a dress, skirt or dark pants.
  • Avoid stiletto heels, as the ceremony is on the grass, which may be wet & uneven.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking & standing.
  • Graduates must wear an all-black cap & gown to participate.
  • We encourage you to decorate your caps! Decorations must be restricted to the top only.

HONORS:

  • 75+ Program GPA: Honor Graduate — single gold cord
  • 00 Program GPA: Honor w/ Distinction — double gold cord

(Eligibility is determined after final grades are posted. Applies to Degree and diploma graduates only; certificate graduates not included.)

  • Cords are provided by the college and will be distributed during check-in.
  • Other regalia sanctioned by clubs or organizations recognized by LTC may be worn, but will be distributed by those organizations prior to the day of commencement.

ACCESSIBILITY:

If you or your guests require accommodations, contact Accessibility Services at 770-533-7003 or adacoordinator@laniertech.edu by Wednesday, April 13, 2026.

  • This includes but not limited to strollers & wheelchairs.

STUDENTS — Important Notes

  • The ceremony is outdoors on the Hall Campus Quadrangle. Plan accordingly.
  • Deadlines are strictly enforced.
  • Lanier Technical College is a tobacco-free campus.
  • Student arrival time 7:00 AM
  • Bring snacks & water—you may wait up to 2 hours.
  • Please silence all cell phones

GUESTS — Important Notes

  • Guest are not allowed in the Riley Building – reserved for graduates only.
  • Restrooms are available in adjacent buildings.
  • Guests arrival time: Between 7:30 AM and 8:15 AM
  • No one will be seated after 8:50 AM due to the processional.
  • The ceremony will be recorded but not live-streamed and may last up to 3 hours.
  • In the event of severe weather, a modified indoor ceremony will be held at a later date (TBA).
  • STROLLERS & WHEELCHAIRS require accommodations. Please contact accessibility services by April 16, 2026.
    • Without prior arrangements, strollers must be removed from the Quad.

PHOTOGRAPHY:

By participating, all graduates consent to being photographed and filmed.

  • A professional photographer will take two candid photos during the ceremony.
  • You will receive a free proof by email within two weeks.

QUESTIONS?

Contact your Graduation Specialist:

Allison Tate
770-533-7111
atate11@laniertech.edu

Registrar’s Office
770-533-7014
registrar@laniertech.edu

Commencement is a very special time.


We encourage you to enjoy your accomplishment, reflect on the time spent pursuing your degree, diploma or certificate, and look forward to the exciting future of endless possibilities.