Annenberg School building viewed from the south side with clear blue sunny sky and tulips

2024 Communication Major Graduation Celebration

May 19, 2024 11:30am-1:30pm
  • Benjamin Franklin Ballroom, Sheraton University City, 3549 Chestnut St., Philadelphia
Audience Invitees Only

A luncheon and ceremony to celebrate our graduating Communication majors!

This year, we’re celebrating our Communication majors with a sit-down lunch and ceremony in the Benjamin Franklin Ballroom of the Sheraton University City. It will take place on Sunday, May 19, from 11:30am – 1:30pm. We invite each graduate to bring up to four loved ones to the event.

Distinguished alumnus Shawnika Hull (Ph.D. ‘10), Associate Professor of Communication at Rutgers University, will be delivering the alumni address. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Are RSVPs required for the Comm Graduation Celebration? 

Yes. Due to space limitations, only students and their guests who RSVP’d by the April deadline can attend. The event will have assigned seating, and you will pick up your table assignment when you check in.  

What time should I plan to arrive at the Sheraton? 

Please aim to arrive between 11:15 and 11:30am. The ceremony will begin at around noon and last for approximately 45 minutes.  

Are there any limitations on what I can bring to the ceremony? 

Yes. The University has a list of prohibited items for its Franklin Field Commencement, and Annenberg’s event will follow these guidelines as well. Please also note that the Sheraton does not allow helium balloons, as these can set off the smoke alarms. It also does not allow confetti, glitter, or similarly messy items.  

Is the Sheraton wheelchair accessible? 

Yes. If you or your guests require additional accommodations, or have any questions regarding accessibility, please email Luisa Klemm at luisa.klemm@asc.upenn.edu by Wednesday, May 15, 2024. 

How is this ceremony different from the ceremony hosted by the College on Sunday evening or the University ceremony on Monday? 

Annenberg’s 2024 graduation luncheon is an intimate event to recognize the achievements of our majors. All graduates will have their name called and will walk across the stage to receive their certificate. Our in-house photographer will take pictures of students as they greet the Dean.  

Will graduates be receiving their Penn diplomas at this ceremony? 

No. Penn diplomas of May graduates are mailed in July, the diplomas of August graduates are mailed in October, and the diplomas of December 2023 graduates were mailed in February. 

Will graduates be wearing their caps and gowns at this ceremony? 

No. Academic regalia is not worn for this ceremony. Photographs will be taken at the event, and we encourage you to wear something that feels celebratory.  

Questions?

If you have any further questions, please contact Luisa Klemm, Annenberg's Associate Director of Events, at luisa.klemm@asc.upenn.edu

Disclaimer: This event may be photographed and/or video recorded for archival, educational, and related promotional purposes. We also may share these video recordings through Annenberg's website or related platforms. Certain events may also be livestreamed. By attending or participating in this event, you are giving your consent to be photographed and/or video recorded and you are waiving any and all claims regarding the use of your image by the Annenberg School for Communication. The Annenberg School for Communication, at its discretion, may provide a copy of the photos/footage upon written request.