The 2013 Iowa State University Graduation Is Near Our Story City Hotel

Published on Monday, 22 April 2013 06:00

It's strange to speak about spring commencement with snow (or something like it) still falling from the sky. But, as sudden as it may seem, graduation is upon us. In just 3 weeks on the weekend of May 10th-11th, the Iowa State 2013 commencement will take place near our Story City hotel.

Three separate ceremonies are scheduled for the weekend with graduate candidates first to take the stage. Masters and PhD candidates will walk at the Hilton Coliseum on Friday evening at 8 p.m.

If you've never been to a graduate level commencement, you may be surprised by the pomp and circumstance. At long last, the hard-working candidates are recognized for their accomplishments with special ceremonial touches. Each will be accompanied to the stage by a marshal and hooded by an official. The ceremony is scheduled to last until 9:30.

Though a bit less formal, Iowa State's undergraduate graduation on Saturday draws the real crowd. Bachelors candidates will walk in an afternoon ceremony (also at the Hilton Coliseum) beginning at 1:30 p.m. and scheduled to end around 4:00 p.m.

Christine Romans, CNN business anchor and host of "Your Bottom Line" will speak at the undergraduate ceremony. An expert on all things economy and well versed in the scandals surrounding the War of Terror, Romans is sure to speak to the concerns of our current generation.

Romans herself is a graduate of Iowa State University and a superior example of success post-college.

Also on Saturday is the Veterinary Medicine ceremony. Future vets will walk at noon in the Stephens Auditorium and hear a speech by Dr. Tammy Beckham, director of the National Center for Foreign Animal and Zoonotic Disease Defense.

Want to capture this special day on camera? It may be hard to get the perfect picture from your seat in the stands (though please feel free to snap away). In addition Flash Photography staff will be at each ceremony circling the floor seeking all the best, up close views. Their photographs will be available for purchase online soon after the commencement.

Graduation day parking will be available south of Hilton. Attendants will be stationed to direct you to the proper location.

Check out Iowa State's mobile-friendly graduation week guide complete with event information, maps, and restaurant and entertainment options.

For a no hassle lodging option, visit our Story City hotel just minutes from the Hilton Coliseum.