Guest Accessibility

At Northern Illinois University, we are dedicated to making our Commencement ceremonies accessible and inclusive for all members of the community. Accessibility is a core value for at NIU and we strive to make every aspect of our Commencement celebrations welcoming graduates, families, and guests of all abilities.

On this website, you will find information about accessibility features and services available during graduation events. We are committed to providing accommodations such as accessible seating, captioning, and other support to ensure that everyone can fully participate in the joyous occasion of graduation.

If you or your guests require an accommodation for commencement ceremonies, we are here to help. Please fill out the commencement accessibility form and someone will contact you regarding your request. Please allow sufficient time to arrange the accommodation.

Commencement Accessibility Form

Parking

The Convocation Center has permanent spaces designated for persons with disabilities. If a person in your party would like to directed to accessible parking or dropped off near the entrances, please let the parking attendants know as you enter the drive of the Convocation Center. They will then direct you.

Wheelchair Assistance

To ensure that all guests have a comfortable and enjoyable experience during our graduation ceremonies, we provide wheelchair assistance for those who need help getting to their seats. For added convenience, please let us know in advance that you require wheelchair assistance, so we can coordinate your arrival time with staff availability. If you or your guest require this service, please use the Commencement Accessibility Form ahead of time to ensure availability.

Accessible Seating

The Convocation Center is an arena where all the seating (except for ADA) is accessed via at least one step. Limited ADA seating is on the main level around the arena bowl (the edge of the first level seating around the area floor). ADA seating is general admission and is not able to be reserved. We encourage guests who require ADA seating to arrive early as seating is first come, first serve. One member of your party will be able to sit next to the guest in the ADA seating area, while the rest of your party will be able to sit in the rows just in front of this area. Guests are responsible for bringing any special equipment they may need, such as wheelchairs and walkers.

Deaf or Hard of Hearing Guests and Graduates

Commencement ceremonies are closed captioned. The video boards can be seen from any seat in the arena.

Guests or graduates who need American Sign Language (ASL) will need to complete the Commencement Accessibility Form. If you are a guest and requested ASL interpreting, please find a volunteer with an accessibility badge to be seated near the stage.

Service Animals

Service animals are welcome to accompany individuals with disabilities in all areas on campus. Personal pets and emotional support animals are not allowed in any campus buildings or in the seating area of commencement activities.

Learn more about service animals on campus. If you have additional questions, please contact the Disability Resource Center at 815-753-1303 or drc@niu.edu.