Frequently Asked Questions

All graduates must line up no later than 8 a.m. There will be no entrance to the line-up after this time. The Commencement Processional and Program for graduates will begin promptly at 8:50 a.m.

In May, Mobile-area weather conditions and temperatures can vary from high humidity to low. Those who are sensitive to the sun should be prepared with sunscreen. Comfortable business attire and shoes are recommended.

The commencement program will begin sharply at 9 a.m

Each graduate will receive five (5) tickets each for family and friends. The tickets will be given in at the Barter Student Center Information desk the Friday before commencement. Please note children three (3) and under who will sit in a caregiver’s lap do not need tickets; every one of your guests who will use a seat needs a ticket.

Family members, friends, and members of the SHC community who cannot attend Commencement may view the event online via the SHC Livestream page.

Yes. As you present it to the name reader, Latin Honors will be displayed and announced on your Gradcard.

Diplomas are printed and mailed about eight (8) weeks after completing all academic requirements pending any holds on your student account (i.e., academic and financial holds).

A graduate class picture will be taken on the steps of Byrne Hall immediately after Commencement.

To order your regalia (as well as announcements, diploma frames, and invitations) please visit https://colleges.herffjones.com/college/shc/ or herff.ly/shc. Please review the following important details:

All regalia will be shipped by Herff Jones directly to the address you provide at checkout.

Cap & Gown Ordering Deadline

• The deadline to order is Friday, March 13, 2026, at 10:59 PM CST.
• At 11:00 PM CST, the site will close for standard orders and reopen for late orders.
• Students should allow approximately 4 weeks for delivery after placing their order and will arrive to the address provided during checkout.
• Announcements, Rings and Frames purchased will be direct shipped to the student’s home and arrive separately.

Late Orders with Rush Shipping (New!)

• The website will reopen on March 14, 2026 for late orders with rush shipping.
• The final rush shipping deadline is Friday, April 3, 2026, at 10:59 PM CST.
• Students can expect delivery in approximately 2 weeks after placing their order with rush shipping.

3+1 candidates should order the cap and gown of the higher degree awarded. Additional tassels or basic stoles can be purchased on the Herff Jones website during ordering.

Honors Convocation allows the college community to recognize the academic achievements of undergraduate students and seniors with full-time enrollment.

Commencement is a college ceremony where the current graduating class is commemorated as a whole. The Senior Orator, faculty, and guest speaker will address graduates and their families during the ceremony. 

Baccalaureate is a non-denominational, interfaith ceremony held a few days before college graduation. It is open to all students and their guests and is a wonderful opportunity to bless our graduates as they proceed with the next stage of their lives.  

Below is a campus parking map for graduation. Golf cart shuttles will be provided for guests.

All seating is general admission, but if you need accommodations please email academicaffairs@shc.edu with your request. Please note: every wheelchair space will be to the right of the stage. We cannot seat entire parties because these spaces are limited and in high demand. There will be one companion seat included with every requested wheelchair space.