Vermont State Castleton Commencement 2024

Stefanie Schaffer

Stefanie Schaffer is a Vermont local who graduated from Castleton University in 2020 with a Bachelor of Science in Health Promotion and Magna Cum Laude Honors. Since graduation, she has gone on to pursue work as a disability advocate, author of a best-selling memoir, and public speaker. In addition, she works at the Women’s Health Department at UVM Medical Center. Stefanie is a volunteer and ambassador to many local and national non-profits, most notably the American Red Cross.

Are There Tickets?

Your guests will need tickets in order to gain entrance to the Pavilion/Tent. Seats are not reserved, but tickets are required. Please note that tickets are only given to students who have indicated that they are attending commencement. Commencement tickets cannot be sold. Any violation will result in disciplinary action.

How Many Tickets Are Allowed?

Please note that every student who wishes to participate in the Commencement ceremony will have four tickets reserved under their name until May 1. These tickets will be available at the university store starting March 26. After May 1, a lottery will be held for any additional tickets. However, please be aware that anyone who is added to the commencement list after May 1 is not guaranteed tickets.

How to Get Tickets

Tickets will be available March 26 at the university store. A lottery will be held for extra tickets after May 1. Anyone added to the commencement list after May 1 is not guaranteed tickets.

You must be in the list to graduate in order to pick up tickets.

Can’t Get to Campus to Pick-up Tickets?

You may request that your tickets be mailed to you by emailing Meredith.Fletcher@VermontState.edu. Requests must be received by April 20. Be sure to include your full name, student ID number, phone number, and current mailing address.

You will also be able to request tickets through the lottery.

You must be cleared to graduate by the Registrar before tickets will be released to you. If you are cleared to graduate after May 1, tickets are not guaranteed.

Extra Tickets

If you require more tickets for your guests, you may enter the lottery for the extra tickets when you reserve your tickets. If, after May 6, there are any additional seats, lottery tickets will be drawn. There is no guarantee that extra tickets will be available.

Does a Ticket Mean a Reserved Seat?

Tickets are for seats in the Pavilion or under the attached tent. Seating is not reserved and is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Your guests can access the Pavilion/tent about an hour before the ceremony.

Is There Special Seating Available?

There will be a designated special seating area for guests who use a wheelchair, have difficulty walking from the parking lots to the ceremony, have vision problems, or have other disabilities.

Seating is limited to your disabled guest(s) and one other guest. Each “special seat” is included in, not in addition to, your original ticket allocation.

Please indicate the number of guests that need accessibility accommodations, and what accommodations they require, when you order your tickets. Please contact Lori Phillips at Lori.Phillips@VermontState.edu or via phone at 802.468.6039, to make arrangements for your guests to receive proper assistance. Special seating may not be available on commencement day, unless prior arrangements have been made.

If you are a student and have additional accessibility needs or require accommodations, please contact Gerry Volpe, Coordinator of Disability Services at 802.468.1428.

Are Caps and Gowns Required?

You can buy your undergraduate regalia starting on March 26 at the Grad Fair at the University Gear Shop, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Regalia will still be available for purchase at the Gear Shop after March 26th. A link to have regalia shipped to your home will be available on April 1. Please be prepared to pay for the cap and gown when you place your order.

Where Can Cap and Gown Orders be Placed?

Undergraduates

Undergraduate regalia can be purchased March 26 during the Grad Fair at the University Gear Shop. After April 1, regalia can ordered and shipped home.

Please be prepared to pay for the cap and gown at the time you order.

Master’s Graduates

The University Gear Shop will start selling Master’s regalia on March 26 during the Grad Fair from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. After March 26, regalia will still be available at the Gear Shop, and starting on April 1, you can also have regalia shipped to your home. However, for gowns ordered after April 1, there is no guarantee that the shipment will arrive on time.

The complete regalia package (cap, gown, hood, and tassel) costs $74.90. Hoods will be distributed at the ceremony. For more information, please contact the University Gear Shop directly at 802.468.1229.

Can the Cap and Gown Be Ordered Now?

You can purchase regalia starting on March 26 during the Grad Fair at the University Gear Shop, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Regalia will continue to be available for purchase in the Gear Shop after March 26. Order your cap and gown here.

Parking

We strive to make parking for commencement as convenient as possible for all graduates and their families. Since most students will no longer be on campus, and there should be sufficient parking for all visitors. Parking prior to the commencement ceremony is rarely an issue. Public Safety officials will be on campus all day to direct guests to available parking areas. Shuttle service will be available from parking lots to the Pavilion. Access to Hoff Hall lot will be restricted.

After commencement, however, struggles with traffic congestion can be problematic. With the proper information and a little pre-planning, your exit will be as hassle-free as possible. Please be mindful of our traffic plan listed below when parking, and advise you family and guests accordingly.

Where to Park

All campus lots will be available for parking, with the exception of the Hoff Lot, which is reserved for handicapped parking. A shuttle van will run between all lots and the Pavilion before and after the ceremony.

Handicapped Parking

Hoff and Ellis Lots will be reserved for handicapped parking. A handicapped car tag will be required. If your guest needs handicapped parking, or needs to be dropped off near the Pavilion, please contact Lori Phillips at 802.468.6039.

Resident’s Parking

If you or your guests will need access to the residence halls after Commencement, we recommend parking in the Houses or Campus Center lots.

Exiting Commencement

From Hoff and Ellis Lots – We strongly encourage those leaving these lots to turn south (right turn) onto South Street and continue to Rt. 30. Any traffic turning north on South Street after Commencement will incur a lengthy delay.

From South Street Lot – We strongly encourage those leaving these lots to turn south (left turn) onto South Street and continue to Rt. 30. Any traffic turning north on South Street after Commencement will incur a lengthy delay.

From Jeffords and Hope Lots – We strongly encourage those leaving these lots to turn north (right turn) onto South Street toward Main Street. Any traffic turning south on South Street after Commencement will incur a lengthy delay.

From Campus Center and Castleton Houses Lots – We strongly encourage those leaving these lots to turn north (left turn) onto South Street toward Main Street. Any traffic turning south on South Street after Commencement will incur a lengthy delay.

From Observatory, Stafford, Library, Fine Arts Center, Leavenworth and Woodruff Lots – If you park here, all traffic will only be allowed to exit via Seminary Street at the conclusion of the ceremony. No traffic from these lots will be allowed to exit via South Street. We strongly encourage traffic coming out of Seminary Street to turn right, headed east on Main Street to State Route 4 West. Any traffic turning left, headed west on Main Street, can expect to incur substantial traffic delays.

Please feel free to contact Keith Molinari, Director of Public Safety, if you have any questions or concerns. He can be reached at Keith.Molinari@VermontState.edu, or 802.468.1288.

Thank you for your cooperation in making traffic flow smoothly.

Are Pets Allowed?

Please leave your pet at home. Do not leave your pet in your vehicle. The only pets allowed at the Commencement ceremony are service animals.

Will Flowers Be Available?

Flowers will be sold on Commencement day. Proceeds will benefit the Student Nurse Association (SNA).

Where Should Guests Make Hotel Reservations?

If you are an out-of-town guest who will need to stay in the area, we suggest staying at one of our premium hotel and lodging partners. We suggest making a reservation as soon as possible, and to mention Vermont State University, Castleton for specialty promotions and discounts when available.

Lake Bomoseen Lodge

Lake Bomoseen Lodge is a brand-new resort at the former Edgewater Resort, located on Lake Bomoseen. Located only 4 miles from campus, guests will be treated to newly renovated lake-lodge inspired rooms, condos, and cottages. It also features a new bar and restaurant called ‘The Taproom,’ offering a wide selection of craft brews and delicious pub fare. Guests will also enjoy a full complement of water activities right at the resort.

Antique Mansion B&B

Antique Mansion B&B is a highly regarded Bed and Breakfast in a historic Victorian on 4 park-like acres within Rutland City limits and just 12 miles from campus. It is near local restaurants, shops and museums. Rooms are smoke-free and include private bathrooms, door locks, and cable TV. Rates include parking

by the front door, Wi-Fi, and a full breakfast, served in our traditional Dining Room. Some suites have adjacent rooms for parties of more than two people.

Bentley House B&B

The Bentley House B&B is located in the Poultney Village, just 6 miles south of campus. Poultney is a friendly and quaint village, with lakes, historical buildings, and hiking trails in the area, as well as restaurants and stores. The Inn itself had been restored and decorated to show the comfort and splendor of the Victorian era. Featuring five bedrooms with in-suite bathrooms, a bountiful breakfast each day, and the comfort of the parlor fireplace in the winter months and the wrap around porch in the warm months.

Best Western Inn & Suites Rutland-Killington

Best Western Inn & Suites Rutland-Killington is located in Vermont’s green mountains, and offers a variety of amenities during all seasons. The central hotel is within a 15-minute drive of the Castleton campus, and Killington Mountain, as well as offers a free continental breakfast and condo-style accommodations.

The Comfort Inn at Trolley Square

The newly renovated Comfort Inn at Trolley Square is a smoke-free hotel, just off of Route 7, and is located adjacent to the Southside Steakhouse, an American steakhouse with the highest quality steak, seafood and produce. A stay at the Comfort Inn includes a continental breakfast, recreational amenities, such as an indoor pool and hot tub, and free internet access through the hotel.

North Star Inn & Resort

Nestled in the rolling hills of Vermont’s Green Mountains, a stay at the North Star Inn & Resort in Killington is a home away from home. North Star Inn & Resort offers standard hotel rooms with a single king bed or two double beds, equipped with all the necessities and luxuries of home. Located on the Killington Road, guests have easy access to dining, nightlife, and recreational activities. Located within walking distance from the Castleton Lodge at Killington.

Pond Mountain Inn

The Pond Mountain Inn, a highly acclaimed boutique country inn, located on a serene country lane nestled on the slopes of Pond Mountain, is a top choice for Vermont lodging. Extraordinary breakfasts are served in the sun-drenched

dining room with breathtaking views of neighboring Northeast Mountain. Guests will be treated to a personalized experience with the quiet comforts of the quintessential New England property.

Hampton Inn

Located in the Green Mountains off Highway 7 and Highway 4, we’re across from the Green Mountain Shopping Plaza, and within walking distance of eateries. Explore Chaffee Art Center within a five minutes’ drive. Aitken State Forest is only 10 minutes away. Daily hot breakfast and Wi-Fi are free.

Nursing Pinning Ceremony

This symbolic ceremony has a long tradition for the Castleton campus Nursing Department. It will be held in the Casella Theater on Friday, May 17, at 6 p.m. and is open to the public. It is a capstone experience for nursing graduates at which awards are given for outstanding performance. Candles are lit and a pledge is recited by the graduates following the presentation of their Nursing pins. The Pinning Ceremony is not meant to replace the Commencement ceremony itself. Nursing students who will be graduating with honors will receive their white tassels at the Pinning Ceremony. The ceremony will be photographed and live-streamed.

Department Gatherings

This is your chance to introduce your family and guests to the faculty in your department, and to spend some time with your fellow majors. Gatherings are held in various academic buildings on campus (locations to be announced) on Saturday, May 18, from 8:45 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Honors tassels will be presented at each department gathering at approximately 9:00 a.m.. Please note: times may vary by department, so please check with yours.

Graduation Rehearsal & Candlelighting, May 16. 2024

In order to have a ceremony that will be memorable to you and your family, rehearsal is essential. In addition to finding out exactly where you will sit and where your spot is in the procession, a class photo will be taken. Rehearsal takes place on Thursday, May 16, at 7 p.m. in the Castleton Pavilion.

What is Candlelighting?

Candlelighting is a traditional ceremony that has been held for many years at Castleton. Students and alumni light candles at the front steps of Woodruff Hall, and process through the Alumni Gates to the Old Chapel. Candlelighting will be held on the steps of Woodruff on Thursday, May 16, immediately following rehearsal.

What If I Was a December Graduate? Do I Have to Go to Rehearsal & Candlelighting?

If you are a December graduate, it may be difficult for you to make the rehearsal, but this does not reduce its importance. If you do not attend rehearsal, you should plan to arrive at your designated assembly location a little earlier on Saturday, and report to the administrator in charge.

Will the Ceremony be Recorded or Live-Streamed?

The Northeast Sports Network (NSN) will be providing streaming services for both the Nurses’ Pinning Ceremony, from the Casella Theater on Friday at 6 p.m., and Commencement from the Pavilion on Saturday at 10:30 a.m.

In addition, Saturday’s ceremony will be simulcast in Jeffords Auditorium. No tickets are required for this venue. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. Please keep in mind that simulcasting is contingent upon successful technical transmission of NSN feed, and cannot be guaranteed.

Will There Be a Photographer?

In addition to the videographer, a professional photographer from Island Photography will take pictures of each graduate as they cross the stage. If you would like to receive a direct link to the photos, you can register on Island Photography’s website. You may register several emails to allow all of your family and friends to receive a direct link to this event. Images will be posted within 72 hours of the ceremony. All inquiries should be made to Island Photography at 800.869.0908.

Are Guests Allowed to Take Photos?

Guests taking photographs or taping, are asked to refrain from blocking the aisles or interfering with other guests’ views of the ceremony. Please be respectful of all graduates and guests, and comply with ushers’ requests.

When Will Diplomas Arrive?

During the commencement ceremony, graduates will receive a diploma jacket with a congratulatory letter from the President. Diplomas are ordered during the summer after the final degree audits are completed. Diplomas will be mailed to graduates in mid-July to the address provided on the graduation application. 

Please note that if you have an address change for mailing your diploma, kindly send an email to the Registrar’s Office at Registrar@VermontState.edu. This will ensure your diploma’s secure and timely delivery to the desired address. 

How To Get Transcripts

For May graduates, transcripts will be available once final degree audits are completed by mid-June.  To order a transcript, please visit Vermont State University Transcript Request.

It is important to note that you must have fulfilled all your financial obligations to the University to successfully place a transcript request.

Is There Anything That Might Effect Eligibility to Graduate?

The most common reasons why students end up being disappointed at the last minute are:

• Final cumulative average falls below 2.0
• Failure to complete degree requirements
• Transcripts not received from other colleges attended
• Incomplete grades not submitted
• Not passing the required graduation standards

What Does Graduating With Honors Mean?

Degrees with distinction (AKA “Honors”)are summa cum laude (cumulative GPA of 3.9 or higher), magna cum laude (cumulative GPA of 3.7-3.89), and cum laude (cumulative GPA of 3.5-3.69). Cumulative GPA is based on work completed at VTSU, and students must have completed a minimum of at least 50% of the total graded credits required for graduation at the Vermont State University to qualify for degrees with distinction.

How to Know if You Are Graduating With Honors

Actual honors will be determined by your final cumulative GPA (as of May 2024) and will be indicated on your diploma. If you have achieved the GPA required for distinction as of December 2023, you will receive a white tassel at your department reception on Saturday preceding the commencement ceremony. Please note that Nursing graduates will receive their white tassels at the Nursing Pinning Ceremony.

How to Inform the Dean of Name Pronunciation

• 1. Call x31496 from a campus phone, or (802) 468-1496 from a cell phone or off campus phone.
• 2. You will get a message that says. “Express messaging to mailbox.” Enter 2320# and wait for the voice.
• 3. Listen for the instructions and then speak.

Will Graduate Names Be Listed In the Commencement Program?

Any application to graduate after April 19 is not guaranteed to be listed in the official commencement program.

What if VTSU is Still Owed Money?

By Saturday, May 18, 2024, please make sure that all of your outstanding accounts at VTSU are paid or resolved. Diplomas and transcripts will be delayed if you have any outstanding account balances.

How to Handle Student Loans

If you have received a Federal Student Loan, which includes a Direct Subsidized/Unsubsidized and/or Perkins Loan, it is mandatory to complete exit counseling if you are graduating or dropping below half-time enrollment. This requirement is applicable for the Federal Direct Loan program and can be completed online.

• Visit https://studentloans.gov
• Log in using your FSA ID
• Select “Complete Loan Counseling”
• Choose “Exit Counseling” from the selections
• Click “Start”

The session will take about 20-30 minutes to complete. If you have questions regarding your Federal Direct Loans, please contact Student Financial Services at 802.468.6070.

For Students Who Live on Campus

Graduating seniors must make arrangements with residence hall staff to check out of their residence hall room by 6 p.m. on Sunday, May 18, 2024. There will be further information provided regarding each residence halls check out procedure in May. Regular meal service in Huden Dining Hall will end with lunch on Friday, May 17, 2024.

Alumni Association

Once you graduate, you are an official member of the Alumni Association. Some of the benefits of being a member include the alumni online community, group savings on home and auto insurance, continued use of the library, free admission at athletic events, continued support from Career Services, and invitations to regional alumni socials. Stay connected with your alma mater through the Alumni Association!

For general commencement information, contact Meredith Fletcher, Special Projects and Academic Events Coordinator, at 802.468.1202. She will be happy to talk to you! You may also e-mail her at: Meredith.Fletcher@VermontState.edu.

If you have questions about your eligibility to graduate, please contact the University Registrar’s Office at Registrar@VermontState.edu.