FAQ

Why a new event?

Due to renovations in Thompson-Boling Assembly Center and Arena, the university-wide commencement ceremony was cancelled for this year. Since there is not an indoor venue in Knoxville large enough to hold a formal seated ceremony and the expected audience, this new event was proposed and has been planned in coordination with the Student Government Association.

Who planned this?

A committee of staff and students planned the event. The plans incorporated feedback from graduates, their families and university employees.

Where do I park?

Parking is available in all commuter and non-commuter lots for students and guests. Special needs parking is available in Staff Lot 23 located directly behind the Clarence Brown Theater.

What can I expect?

Kickoff to Commencement will be an informal event for graduates and their families to celebrate the exciting time of graduation. Dress for the event is casual.

After the Aloha Oe ceremony, the festivities begin on the pedestrian mall with a welcome by Chancellor Loren Crabtree and a short speaking program followed by a buffet-style dinner and finally performance by UT alumna and country music star Deana Carter. Chaired seating will be limited due to the nature of the event, but guests are encouraged to bring a blanket or camping chair to enjoy the concert.

Is there a limit on the number of guests I can bring?

There is no limit on the number of guests you may bring, although we ask that you please register the number on this Web site, so the university can plan for food accordingly.

Is there a charge?

No. All activities and food are free.

What if it rains?

The event will be held rain or shine. Much of the area will be tented in the event of inclement weather.

Is this a graduation ceremony?

No, this is not a graduation ceremony. Each college has a traditional commencement planned for its graduates that we encourage everyone to participate in. For more information about these ceremonies call the Registrar's Office at 974-2101.

Will this be held every year?

For this semester only, the Kickoff will replace the traditional university-wide commencement ceremony. With student, family and employee feedback, the administration will determine the most appropriate event or combination of events to best celebrate spring commencement. There are no plans to make any changes to the university-wide fall ceremony.

Accessibility Information for Commencement Kick-Off:

Where can individuals who have a handicap placard park?

There will be reserved parking behind the Clarence Brown Theatre. In addition, an individual who has a handicap placard can park in any non-reserved space on campus. Individuals may also be dropped off close to the event on the west side of the greenway, behind the Clarence Brown Theatre.

Will there be reserved seating for individuals who use wheelchairs, or who have mobility disabilities?

The event calls for individuals to bring their own seating, as there will not be chairs available for all. Therefore, since we can not guarantee that there will be reserved spaces for all individuals with disabilities, we recommend that you bring your own chairs as well. There will be some seating/tables marked as reserved for individuals with mobility impairments near the food area to allow individuals to sit and eat. There will be an area marked off at the top of the seating area for Deana Carter's performance to allow individuals who use wheelchairs to see the performance

Will there be an interpreter at the event?

An interpreter will be present during the Aloha Oe ceremony and all the speakers including the Deana Carter performance at the Pedestrian Mall stage. A few spaces will be reserved for individuals who use sign language interpreters in front of the stage. Once the performance starts, those spaces may be released for others to use.

Who do I contact for more information?

Contact the Office of Public Relations at 974-2225 or bgladden@utk.edu for more information.

If you have any questions about disability needs or services, contact the Office of Disability Services at (865) 974-6087 or ods@utk.edu.