Guests and Visitors

Information for Guests and Visitors

Welcome, visitors, to our most cherished tradition. The 54th annual UIS Commencement ceremonies will be held in Sangamon Auditorium in the UIS Performing Arts Center. Three commencement ceremonies (divided by college) will be held to celebrate our graduates on Friday, May 9, 2025, and Saturday, May 10, 2025. Please direct any questions to commencement@uis.edu.

Commencement Program

Those attending commencement in person will receive a printed program that includes summarized ceremony information. A complete commencement program (including graduate names, etc.) will be posted online.

The complete 2024 online commencement program (including graduate names, etc.) is posted below:

2024 Complete Commencement Program (pdf)

Special Needs

Wheelchairs for transport are not available at Sangamon Auditorium in the UIS Performing Arts Center. Graduates with an assistance/accommodation request must contact the Office of Records and Registration (217-206-7730 or registrar@uis.edu). Guests with an assistance/accommodation must contact the Office Disability Services (217-206-6666 or ods@uis.edu).

Springfield Information

For information related to Springfield, visit: Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau.  They have created a landing page devoted specifically to UIS family and friends.

Directions/Maps

The University of Illinois Springfield is located at One University Plaza Springfield, IL 62703. Please view the helpful information below:

Driving Directions to UIS

Campus Maps of UIS

Gifts for Graduates

If you would like to purchase gifts for your graduate, the UIS Bookstore has a number of items for sale. In addition, the Commencement Group offers a variety of items, including t-shirts and flowers.

Parking

Parking will be available during the commencement ceremonies in campus parking lots. No parking hang tags or parking fees will be required.

Venue (UIS Performing Arts Center) Information

Guests may visit the information desk in the lobby for questions and assistance. In addition, please note the following:

Restrooms and elevators are located on all levels of the Auditorium in each tower.
Accessible seating is available on main and mezzanine levels.
Assisted listening devices and sensory bags are available from the Guest Services Office in the lobby.
Overflow seating with livestream is available on the lower level of the UIS Performing Arts Center.
No smoking is allowed anywhere on the grounds. UIS is a smoke-free and vape-free campus.
Medical assistance is available by request.
Lactation facilities are located in PAC rooms 491 and 492.
Stroller parking is available in the lobby.
Balloons are not allowed in the Auditorium and can be checked at the stroller parking area in the lobby.

Hotels

The following hotels may extend discounted rates to family members and friends attending the UIS Commencement Ceremonies. Please mention “UIS Commencement” when calling to make reservations.