Some milestones are more than cherished memories. A new chapter of tradition begins when you join our alumni family.
College graduation is a milestone event, and at SMC it’s marked by more than just your passing across the commencement stage. We celebrate the achievements and success of our students with a number of events leading up to Commencement.
>> Don't Miss the Graduation Calendar Below the Ceremony Details!
2024 Commencement Ceremony
Ceremony Date & Time: Saturday, May 4 at 9 a.m.
Location: Spartanburg High School - Viking Arena | 2250 E. Main Street Spartanburg, SC 29307
Participating Graduates: All participating graduates must meet in the SHS Auxiliary Gym at 7:20 a.m. Breakfast boxes will be served to students during line-up prior to commencement.
Seating: There is no assigned seating or tickets required at the venue. Seating is first come, first served. Doors open at 8 a.m.
Parking: All student and faculty parking will be in Lot E, near the Viking Arena entrance. All guests are directed to park in Lots A and B on the west side of campus. Handicap-accessible parking is available in all lots and it is recommended guests needing assistance park in Lot E or F. Staff will be on hand to direct guests to the arena for the ceremony.
Ceremony Information
Participating Graduates will receive their regalia and more information at the Cap & Gown Pick Up Party. See Graduation Events Below!
Commencement will be live streamed on SMC's YouTube channel.
Graduation reception will be held outside immediately following the ceremony in the grassy area of the bus circle.
>> Questions? Check out the Ceremony FAQ at the Bottom of this Page!
Class Ring and Memento Information
Visit the SMC Commencement page at Jostens for information on purchasing class rings, diploma frames, announcements or other grad mementos of your time as a Pioneer.
Contact: Victoria Adams
2024 Calendar of Graduation Events
50 Days Fest
*POSTPONED UNTIL APRIL(Due to Weather- Rescheduled) >All Campus Event
An event open to the entire SMC community to celebrate 50 days until graduation. Staff from several offices will be on hand to pass out treats and provide information for students.
Contact: Allen Lollis
50 Days Senior Dinner
Friday, March 15 | 6-8PM Buchheit Boardroom | RSVP Required >Bachelor's Degree Student Event
Special celebration for our Seniors in the Bachelor's Degree programs to countdown the days to Commencement!
Contact: Reed Jostes | Click to RSVP
Honor Society Induction Ceremony
Thurs., March 21 | 6:30PM Ellis Hall, Gibbs Auditorium >Honors Societies Invitation Event
SMC's Psi Beta, Phi Theta Kappa, & Sigma Kappa Delta Honor Societies celebrate the induction of graduating students with their families. Students will be notified if they are being inducted prior to the event. Reception to follow!
Contact: Sharon Wilborn
Cap & Gown Pick Up Party
Wed., April 17 | 11AM-2PM Ellis Hall, Gibbs Lobby >Participating Graduates Event
This is a *REQUIRED EVENT* for all graduates participating in the Commencement Ceremony. Drop in from 11am to 2pm to pick up your regalia, receive ceremony instructions, and complete your graduation form.
Contact: R. Jostes & Regalia: J. Johnson
APEX Showcase
Thursday, April 18 | 3PM-6PM Ellis Hall, Gibbs Aud. | RSVP Required >All Students & Community Event
This is a networking and presentation event with our Bachelor's degree students, who will share with the community about their Capstone projects. Free Event & Open to the Public. Learn More on the APEX 2024 website.
Contact: SMCX | Click to RSVP
Awards Night
Thurs., April 18 | 6PM-7:30PM Ellis Hall, Gibbs Auditorium >Awards Invitation & Family Event
Following APEX Showcase, students are invited to continue the celebration at Awards Night with their families. SMC will recognize our graduates and current students with outstanding academic achievement and leadership excellence. Students will be notified prior to event if they have been selected for an award.
Contact: Sharon Wilborn
"The Night Before" Graduation Party
Friday, May 3 | 6PM-9PM Bridges Arena | RSVP Required >All Graduates & Guests/Family Event
Celebrate in a BIG way with your family and friends the night before commencement. All graduates are invited (whether you're participating in the ceremony or not)! Attend this FREE party with your guests, faculty, and staff. Students will RSVP by April 5. Faculty & Staff will receive RSVP instructions in April.
Contact: R. Jostes | Students Click to RSVP