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COVID-19 Response and Reopening

Commencement

2020-21 Commencement Ceremony

COCC is happy to announce that we will be holding a Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, June 12! In an effort to keep you, COCC staff, and our community safe, this year's celebration will be a drive-through event. Graduates from the class of 2020 and 2021 will be invited to participate. Please carefully review the event details and FAQ below. We can't wait to celebrate you!

Saturday, June 12
Bend Campus
Begins at 9 a.m. (you will be assigned a specific arrival time for the ceremony the week of May 24-28)

Commencement Celebration Website

COCC congratulates our Bobcat graduates!  Check out videos of our commencement speakers, student award recipients, and celebrations.

Commencement Celebration 2021

Commencement RSVP

The RSVP is now closed. Please contact myprogress@cocc.edu if you are interested in participating in this year's ceremony.

Commencement FAQ

Will I get to walk across the stage?
Yes! While this is a drive-through event, you will still have the opportunity to exit your vehicle, walk across the stage, have your name and degree/certificate read, and receive your diploma cover - similar to a typical commencement ceremony!

Can my family and friends attend?
Absolutely! However, we are only able to accommodate one car per graduate, so as many people as you want to bring in your vehicle (safely of course) are welcome.

Will you live stream the ceremony?
Yes, there will be a live stream on Saturday, June 12 on the COCC Facebook page. A recording will also be added to the website after the event. 

How will I know when to arrive?
After you RSVP, we will be communicating with you by email. The week of May 24-28 we will provide more details about the event and your specific arrival time. For now, make sure you block your calendar for the entire day.

How long can I plan to be at the event?
We anticipate that you will be there for no more than 30 minutes.

Will my faculty be there to celebrate?
Of course! Faculty will be on site to help congratulate you as you exit the stage.

Will there be photo opportunities?
Yes, there will be multiple chances for you to get your photo taken! We will have a professional photographer at the event who will take your photo as you cross the stage. These photos will be available for purchase after the event. There will also be a fun selfie station with a COCC backdrop for you to take your own photos!

Do I have to wear a mask?
One of COCC's Principles of Community is to Promote a Healthy and Safe Learning Environment. As part of our commitment to this principle and to follow OHA and CDC guidelines, we are requiring that face masks be worn at any point when exiting your vehicle, walking across the stage or interacting with COCC staff. The exception will be when receiving your professional photo.

Will I see my classmates?
It's possible but not a guarantee. We will be organizing the arrival times by certificate and degrees and will be letting you know when to arrive the week of May 24-28 after you RSVP.

What if I don't have a vehicle?
Don't worry, you can still attend! It will be your responsibility to get to and from campus and some options may include Lyft, Uber, or Cascade East Transit. Once you arrive, we will provide a ride to the stage and back to the drop off location. Please email myprogress@cocc.edu if you do not have a vehicle so we can plan for your arrival and communicate appropriately.

What is the drive-through route?
A detailed map of the commencement route will be provided to you the week of May 24-28.

Where can I get my cap, gown and tassel?
You can purchase your cap and gown from our Bookstore along with graduation announcements and other memorabilia. If you have any questions, email bookstore2@cocc.edu or call 541-383-7570

Will I still receive a commencement program?
Yes, we will provide you a program at the event. Want more than one to share with family and friends? No problem! Just let us know when we are handing them out at the celebration.

Am I eligible for an honors cord and how will I receive it?

See our Student Honors and Dean’s List page to determine if you’re eligible. If you are, congratulations! The honors cords will be available when you check in at the event!



Can I decorate my vehicle?
 Yes! This is highly encouraged. This is your celebration and we want you to have fun with it!


Congratulations on your incredible accomplishment! Please don't hesitate to email myprogress@cocc.edu or call 541-383-7500 if you have any questions. We are here to help!