Commencement Ceremony

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Celebrate Your Graduation at Bluefield State University

Our annual Commencement Ceremony marks the culmination of your academic journey and celebrates the achievements of our graduating students. This event brings together graduates, families, friends, and the campus community to recognize your hard work and success.

Graduate Fair

Bluefield State University’s 12th Annual Graduate Fair is an opportunity for candidates to receive important graduation information, get their professional graduation photo, and enjoy prizes & giveaways!

  • Date: Tuesday, March 10, 2026
  • Time: 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
  • Location: Harris Jefferson Student Center
  • Graduate Fair Invitation

Ceremony Details

Date: Saturday, May 16, 2026
Time: 10:00 a.m.
Location: Brushfork Armory, Bluefield, WV – 2915 Old Bramwell Rd Bluefield, WV 24701   

Prepare for Commencement

As you prepare to celebrate your accomplishments, the following resources may be helpful:

  • Commencement Schedule – View important dates, arrival times, class photo schedule, and ceremony timeline.
  • Career Services – for support with resumes, interview preparation, and job searches as you take your next steps.
  • Lodging and Local Attractions – for nearby hotels, dining, and entertainment for guests attending Commencement.
  • Order Your Cap & Gown – The Spring 2026 ordering portal is now open! Orders must be placed by April 8, 2026.

Capture the Moment

A professional photographer will be present to capture your special moments during the ceremony. To purchase your graduation photos, please contact Associated Photography & Framing.

  • Phone: 304-425-5519 or 304-425-3588
  • Address: 813 Mercer Street, Princeton, WV

Venue & Parking Information

  • Guest tickets are not required.
  • Everyone must be seated by 9:45 am. Please plan to arrive early, as traffic may cause delays.
  • Please do not leave vehicles unattended after the ceremony, as the Armory gates will be locked.
  • We are guests of the Armory; please be respectful of the venue and refrain from driving on the grass.
  • If you or your guests have accessibility needs, please contact the Registrar’s Office in advance to request a special parking pass.

Stay Tuned for Updates

We are committed to making this day meaningful and memorable. Please check back regularly for updates as Commencement details are finalized throughout the spring semester.

Contact

For questions or additional assistance, please contact the Registrar’s Office:

Marviene Johnson, Registrar

Frequently Asked Questions

Updates will be posted throughout Spring 2026 as information is finalized. Please check this page regularly.

Guest tickets are not required. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Yes. Rehearsal is mandatory for all candidates and will be held on Friday, May 15, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at the Brushfork Armory.

Graduates should plan to arrive early for class photos, check-in, and lineup. Gates open at 7:30 a.m., class photos begin at 8:00 a.m., and candidate lineup begins at 9:15 a.m.

Commencement is a formal event. Business or business-casual attire is recommended. Comfortable footwear is encouraged.

Yes. Regalia is required for all graduates. Ordering information will be posted on this page once the Spring 2026 ordering window opens.

The Spring 2026 ordering portal is now open! Orders must be placed by April 8, 2026.

Order Cap & Gown

Yes. A professional photographer will capture each graduate during the ceremony. Ordering information is available in the section above.

A livestream link will be shared on this page prior to the ceremony for family and friends who cannot attend.

If you or a guest requires accessible parking, please contact the Registrar’s Office in advance.

Commencement typically lasts around 2 hours, beginning at 10:00 am.

Children are welcome to attend. Please be mindful that seating is general admission, and the ceremony typically lasts two hours.

Please reach out to the Registrar’s Office at 304-327-4060 or mjohnson@bluefieldstate.edu