Commencement special events
Celebrate your academic journey with convocation events that recognize your accomplishments, cultural identity, and contributions to the NAU community.
Convocations at NAU are inclusive celebrations that honor the achievements, identities, and cultures of graduating students. Open to all, these events recognize academic success, leadership, and the rich diversity of our Lumberjack community.
Fall 2025 convocation ceremonies and academic events
Lumberjacks of Inclusion Convocation
Thursday, December 11, 2025
6:30-8:30 p.m.
Ardrey Auditorium
Nursing Pinning Ceremony
Thursday, December 11, 2025
2–4 p.m.
Ardrey Auditorium
Veterans Convocation
Thursday, December 11, 2025
4:30-7 p.m.
University Union - Havasupai
Spring 2026 convocation ceremonies
Asian and Pacific Islander Convocation
Celebrate the cultural richness and accomplishments of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander graduates.
Thursday, May 7, 2026
9–10:30 a.m.
Ardrey Auditorium
Black Student Convocation
Recognize the heritage and achievements of Black graduates through a ceremony rooted in the traditions of the Asante and Ewe peoples and the symbolism of Kente cloth.
Thursday, May 7, 2026
3:30–5 p.m.
Ardrey Auditorium
Hispanic/Latine Convocation
A celebration of diverse Hispanic and Latine nationalities. Graduates receive a sarape sash representing cultural pride and perseverance.
Thursday, May 7, 2026
6:30–8 p.m.
Ardrey Auditorium
Indigenous Convocation
Honor the achievements of Indigenous students, including Native American, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian graduates. Special stoles and sashes reflect cultural heritage and regional symbols of resilience and wisdom.
Thursday, May 7, 2026
12:30–2 p.m.
Ardrey Auditorium
Rainbow Convocation
This celebration honors the accomplishments of graduates in the 2SLGBTQIA+ Lumberjack community, embracing identity and inclusion.
Saturday, May 2, 2026
3–5 p.m.
Prochnow Auditorium
Veterans Convocation
Celebrate the academic and personal achievements of NAU graduates who have served in the US military.
Thursday, May 7, 2026
4–6 p.m.
Ashurst Auditorium
Questions? Contact vets@nau.edu
Convocation FAQs
What are these events?
Convocations honor graduating students for their academic and personal achievements. Stoles are given during these ceremonies and may be worn at Commencement. Degrees are officially conferred during Commencement, not at convocation ceremonies.
What happens at a convocation?
Convocation ceremonies include guest speakers, cultural performances, and the presentation of stoles for graduates to wear during Commencement.
Who can participate?
Any eligible graduating student is welcome to participate.
How many guests can I bring?
You may include up to four (4) guests in your RSVP. For more guests, email inclusion@nau.edu to request additional accommodations.
When should I arrive?
Please arrive at least 30 minutes before the ceremony begins to check in and be seated.
Will it be livestreamed?
No, convocation ceremonies will not be streamed online.
What accessibility accommodations are available for the convocation ceremonies?
All venues offer ADA seating and companion options. For specific accommodation needs, contact inclusion@nau.edu inclusion@nau.edu at least one week prior to the ceremony.
Academic receptions
Our college-hosted academic receptions allow fellow peers, faculty, and guests to honor their students' accomplishments.
Plans are underway! Each college will host academic receptions to honor their students. Event details will be posted here once available. We encourage you to check back regularly for the latest information.