Frequently Asked Questions

Where will the Convocation Ceremony take place? What time do I have to arrive?
Convocation will be held in the Seton Academic Centre Auditorium, followed by a reception in the Seton Foyer. Graduates must report to the 4th Floor Seton 45 minutes before the ceremony for gowning and final instructions about crossing the auditorium stage and receiving parchments.

What will I wear in the Convocation ceremony?
It is mandatory to have a gown and hood to participate in the Convocation ceremony. You will be responsible for the gown and hood until it is returned. Professional attire underneath the academic gowns is suggested. Purses, backpacks and other items will not be permitted for carrying by graduates during the Convocation ceremony.

A room will be arranged where students can leave their personal belongings during Convocation. However, the University cannot assume responsibility for lost or stolen property; students are therefore strongly advised to have a friend or relative look after their belongings during Convocation.

Where can I pick up my gown and hood?
Guest invitations, gowns and hoods can be picked up at the times below. Please note, graduands are encouraged to pick up their hood and gown prior to 45 minutes before the convocation ceremony as they are expected in full lineup at that time on 4th floor Seton Academic Centre.

I've submitted my 'Notice of Attendance' form, and have been allotted three guest invitations, but have additional guests who would like to attend. What should I do? 
On April 18, 2012, any unclaimed convocation tickets will be released to graduands with more than three guests wishing to attend. You will receive an email notifying you of the number of tickets available on this date. When you receive the email, simply reply to msvu.ca and we will do our best to accommodate your guests. In the case tickets are unavailable, your guests are still encouraged to attend, as they will be seated in a viewing room located in Room 530-531 (Seton Academic Centre). A closed-circuit television will display the ceremony. Prior to the ceremony, and if there are any vacant seats remaining in the auditorium, guests from the viewing rooms will be directed to the open seats.

Where can I and my guests park on campus?
Guests should arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the start of the ceremony if they wish to park on campus. Campus Security will be on duty to direct traffic to the nearest parking area. Accessible parking will be available in front of the Seton Academic Centre.

Where Will flower bouquets be available for my family to purchase?
A flower vendor will be set up on the 5th floor of Seton. Bouquets of flowers will be available for purchase throughout Convocation, while supplies last. Note: This service will be cash only.

Who do I contact to get my parchment framed?
Proudly display your parchment by having it professionally framed and highlighted by a blue mat, tastefully inprinted with the Mount Saint Vincent University logo. All frames are high quality, Canadian made with acid-free mats. Ordering your frame is easy - contact the Alumnae Relations Office at 902.457.6433 or complete the online order form. Note: Spring 2012 graduates who order before April 27, 2012 will receive a 10% discount on their framing order!

One of my guests requires special assistance. Can they attend?
Guests requiring assistance are welcome to attend Convocation ceremonies at the Mount; the University is accessible. Please be sure to notify the University if one of your guests requires assistance so that appropriate arrangements can be made. We are not able to provide wheelchairs or attendants, but can offer special seating, if required. If a guest requiring special assistance brings their own attendant, the attendant will require an invitation. If you indicated on your Notice of Attendance Form that one of your guests requires special seating arrangements, a small orange card will be stapled to your guests' invitation directing them to the Auditorium C (5th floor) where Convocation ushers will direct them to special reserved seating.

Can I bring my children?
Children are welcome to attend Convocation ceremonies, but young children may find it difficult to sit through the two-hour ceremony. Guests with small children have the option to view the ceremony in the viewing rooms located outside of the auditorium. Children who do attend the actual ceremony are required to have their own seats and will need a guest invitation to enter the auditorium. Please note that a parent, guardian or adult must accompany all children.

Can photographs and/or video be taken during Convocation?
Family and friends are welcome to take photographs during the ceremony, but care should be taken not to obstruct the view of those seated. Tripods and lights will not be permitted in the auditorium during the Convocation ceremony. Only the official University photographer (and assistant) will be permitted on the platform during the ceremony. The Auditorium will remain open after the ceremony for additional photos. If you receive an award during the ceremony, the official University photographer will attempt to capture this on-stage moment. Please contact Public Affairs after the ceremony if you wish to receive a copy of the photo.

I have a question that's not answered above. What should I do?  
Please contact the appropriate person as listed below. The convocation hotline is checked daily and you will receive a response within 24 hours.