The Class of 2023 Commencement Ceremony will take place on Wednesday, June 21, 2023, beginning at 6 p.m. at the MVP Arena on South Pearl St. in Albany.
Admission Information for Family Members and Guests
- There is no limit to the number of tickets available to graduates and their family.
- There is no charge for tickets and there is no reserved seating.
- Patrons may enter at the main entrance on South Pearl Street or at the entrance on level 3 of the MVP Arena parking garage.
- Parking fees are in effect for this event.
- Patrons will go through a security check from MVP Arena staff at the entrances to the arena.
- Doors will open at 5 p.m.
- After the ceremony, photos may be taken in the front lobby near the waterfall.
Accessibility Information
- There are numerous handicap platforms on the Concourse Level that are designed to accommodate patrons in wheelchairs and their family members. These platforms are accessible by elevators at or near each of the entrance areas. If you are parking in the MVP Parking Garage, Level 3 of the garage leads directly to the Concourse Level.
- Patrons who have difficulty walking very long distances may be dropped off in the Corporate Lot on Market Street. This is just to the South of the Arena’s Main Entrance. Parking is not allowed in this lot, but patrons may be dropped off. If you would like to use this option, please request a “drop off pass” from Mr. Bianchi. This pass must be presented to the Security Gate at that lot. The pass will be included in the envelope given to graduates on rehearsal day when cap and gowns are to be distributed. Rehearsal Day is June 16.
- Patrons are urged to seek out a member of the MVP Arena Security Staff if you seek wheelchair assistance or directions to elevators.
General Information
- The Ceremony will be live streamed and ultimately available on our YouTube channel.
- American Sign Language Interpreters will be interpreting the ceremony for hearing impaired patrons.
- Photographers from Genesee Photos will be taking photos of each graduate. Families will receive information on how to purchase these photos. The information will be included in the envelope that each graduate receives on Rehearsal Day, June 16.
- Concession Stands will not be available at the ceremony.
Admission Information for Graduates
- Graduates are asked to enter through the Beaver Street Entrance that is located on the north corner of the arena. This will lead you directly to the staging area in Exhibition Hall where you are lined up in proper order.
- If you park in the MVP Arena Parking Garage, you may enter at the entrance on Level 3 and then ask security to direct you to the staging area in Exhibition Hall.
- Please be at the staging area by no later than 5:15 p.m.