Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who do I contact if I have questions?
Please reach out to the commencement planning team via email: commencement@kansascity.edu
Where will the ceremonies be held?
Kansas City Venue: Hy-Vee Arena (1800 Genesee Street, Kansas City, MO 64102)
Joplin Venue: MSSU Leggett and Platt Athletic Center (3 Lion Pride Lane Joplin, MO 64801)
Will there be a virtual option to view the ceremony?
Yes, the ceremony will be available to view via livestream and recorded for viewing post-ceremony.
What time will the ceremonies be held?
The ceremonies will take place in the morning. The tentative start time is 10 a.m. for both Joplin and Kansas City.
Please note that ceremony start times are subject to change.
How long does the ceremony last?
It is recommended to plan for the ceremony to take up to three hours.
Can my family bring flowers into the venue?
Yes, family members are welcome to bring flowers into the venue.
How many guests can I invite?
At this time, both venues will permit an unlimited number of guests. A few months before commencement, you will receive a request to complete an RSVP form to let us know how many people will be in your party. If the total ticket requests exceed the fire department-approved venue capacity, KCU retains the right to limit the number of tickets per student.
Will there be a photographer?
Yes, there will be an event photographer who will be taking candid photos.
These photos of the audience, arrivals, ceremony, etc. will be available on KCU’s website and social media platforms a few weeks after the ceremonies.
There is also a professional photographer who will capture you being hooded on stage and then take a portrait photo as you exit the stage. Photos will be available for purchase a few weeks after the ceremonies.
Is attendance at graduation required?
All graduates are required to be present for an in-person commencement ceremony. If you need to request an excused absence, please review the “Request an Excused Absence” section of the Grad Guide.
Can I have a guest hooder?
Yes, KCU does incorporate guest hooders in to commencement, but there are some restrictions. Please review the “Guest Hooder” section of the Grad Guide for your programs Guest Hooder guidelines.
Do I have to pay for my guest hooder’s attire?
Yes, students who choose a guest hooder are responsible for ordering their guest hooder’s commencement regalia.
A link to order guest hooder regalia will be provided.
Please note that full academic regalia is required for participation in the ceremony.
Do guest hooders need to be present at rehearsal?
No, rehearsal is only for students. Once guest hooders have been approved and students have been notified, the commencement team will begin communicating directly with guest hooders to provide all necessary information they need regarding the ceremony.
How do I order my attire?
KCU will order and pay for your commencement regalia for you. You will provide your sizing and the items that you need (including honors cords) on the registration page.
How do I get my attire?
KCU orders your commencement attire for you. You will provide your sizing and the items that you need (including honors cords) during the registration process. It’s important you complete the commencement registration form within the deadline to ensure you receive the correct items. You will pick up your attire the day before commencement on your respective campus.
Do I get to keep my attire?
Yes, your attire is yours to keep.
Can I get my attire early?
No, commencement attire will not be available until the day before your ceremony.