2022 Communication Major Graduation Ceremony

We look forward to congratulating our 2022 graduates as the ceremony returns to its in-person format, and also welcoming back our 2021 grads for the reception.

Annenberg School for Communication is pleased to invite graduating seniors, along with their friends and family, to its Communication Major Graduation Ceremony on May 15, 2022.

At this ceremony, which takes place the day prior to the University Commencement on Franklin Field, we celebrate the graduation of Penn's Communication Majors with the distribution of certificates and awards. The event also includes short speeches by several undergraduates, and an address from a distinguished alumnus. 

Please note that guests are required to wear masks in the Zellerbach Theater, while they are optional but strongly encouraged in all other indoor spaces. The reception will have both indoor and outdoor areas. 

***Students must RSVP for the ceremony through the email that will be sent to them by Dr. Litty Paxton by April 15.***

We are also pleased to welcome both our 2022 and our 2021 graduates and their loved ones to the reception that follows the ceremony.

Graduation Checklist

There can be a lot of details to remember about graduation. Check out our concise checklist to guide you through!

View the Checklist

Times & Locations

The times and locations on Sunday, May 15 will be as follows:

• 10:30-11:30am Ceremony
  • Zellerbach Theater, Annenberg Center for The Performing Arts
    3680 Walnut Street, Philadelphia
• 11:30am-12:30pm  Reception
  • Annenberg Public Policy Center, 202 S. 36th Street, Philadelphia

Students should arrive at the Zellerbach Theater by 10:00am sharp. Those who receive awards should arrive by 9:45am. There will be assigned seating on stage. While there is no formal dress code, please keep in mind that you'll be seated on stage and we will be taking photographs. Academic regalia is not worn for this ceremony.

The reception will be located in the Agora of the Annenberg Public Policy Center, just a short walk from the ceremony location. There will be covered outdoor seating for those who wish to sit outside. We welcome our 2021 grads to join us for the reception!

Rules and Health Precautions

At this time, we do not plan to limit the number of guests each graduate can bring, although this may be subject to restriction if health and safety concerns require. Seating will be available on a first come basis and there are no tickets necessary. 

Masks are currently required for all guests in the Zellerbach Theater, and optional, but strongly encouraged, for all other buildings at the University of Pennsylvania.

Please note that due to the ongoing pandemic, all graduation plans may be subject to change if any unexpected health or safety concerns arise. We will provide as much advance notice as possible about any changes.  

Accessibility

The Zellerbach Theater is ADA compliant and the Penn Live Arts accessibility page can provide more details. 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 Monday, May 2, 2022.

Frequently Asked Questions

When and where is the Undergraduate Graduation Ceremony?

Annenberg School for Communication will be hosting a ceremony for our undergraduate Communication majors on May 15, 2022 at 10:30am at the Zellerbach Theater of the Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts.

Please note that the Annenberg Center is a separate building adjacent to the Annenberg School. 

Will tickets be required for this event? Is there a limit to the number of guests that can attend?

No tickets are required, and there is no guest limit at this time. The Zellerbach Theater is a large space, with over 900 seats, and is able to accommodate all of our students’ guests. There is no reserved or assigned seating. 

Will there be seating available for those in wheelchairs?

Yes. A space within the theater is available to accommodate guests in wheelchairs. Those requiring ADA compliant seating may have up to 3 companions join them. An usher will direct guests to their seats. Visit the Penn Live Arts accessibility page for more details, and please email Luisa Klemm if you or your guests require any additional accommodations. 

What time should I plan to arrive at the Zellerbach Theater?

Doors open at 9:30am. Graduates must arrive by 10:00am and those who fail to arrive on time may not be able to participate. Graduates who are receiving awards should arrive by 9:45am. The ceremony begins promptly at 10:30am and we suggest family and friends arrive approximately 15 minutes early. 

How long will the ceremony be?

Graduation is typically an hour long and done by 11:30am. A light reception will follow. The reception will end by 12:30pm. 

Where will the reception be?

The reception will be hosted at the Annenberg Public Policy Center, which is a short walk from the Annenberg Center. There will be tented outdoor seating outside the Walnut Street entrance to the Annenberg School as well. 

What happens during the Undergraduate Ceremony?

Various awards will be presented to students. A distinguished alumnus will deliver an address. All students will be presented with certificates recognizing their achievement.

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

Annenberg’s ceremony is an intimate event to recognize the achievements of our majors. Graduates sit on the stage with our Dean, faculty, and teaching staff. Various graduates will make brief remarks. All student participants will have their name called and will walk across the stage to receive their certificate of achievement. At the reception that follows, there are photo opportunities with classmates and instructors.

Will graduates be receiving their diplomas at this ceremony?

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

How can I ensure that my graduate will be able to participate in the Annenberg Graduation Ceremony?

All graduates must RSVP by April 15 via the survey that will be sent to them by Dr. Litty Paxton. 

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

No. Academic regalia is not worn for this ceremony. While there is no formal dress code, please keep in mind that you'll be seated on stage and we will be taking photographs. 

If you have any further questions, please contact Luisa Klemm at luisa.klemm@asc.upenn.edu.