Commencement

Knox College Commencement is right around the corner! Exciting events are in store to celebrate our 2025 graduates, our Commencement speaker—Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, and our honorary degree recipients—Theaster Gates and Mary Kent Knight ’60. Families are encouraged to book their accommodations now since nearby hotels fill up fast. Bookmark this page for the latest information, as events are subject to change. The event will be livestreamed if you are unable to join us in person. A link to the 2025 livestream will be posted in advance of the ceremony on June 8. 

Tickets & Guests

No tickets will be required for the 2025 Commencement ceremony. Additionally, there is no limitation on the number of guests that graduates can bring. 

Parking

Parking is available in all campus lots and in the Knox County Courthouse lot at the corner of Cherry & South Streets. The Cherry Street parking lot is reserved for accessible parking. There will be golf carts at this location to assist guests in getting from their cars to the ceremony venue. 

The turnaround at Alumni Hall is reserved for emergency access.

Severe Weather 

Commencement will take place outside even if it rains. Rain gear, windbreakers, and jackets are strongly recommended in case of rainy or cool conditions. It is suggested guests wear shoes appropriate for damp, grassy terrain. Information regarding a location change will be provided via email to students and on this page on the morning of Commencement, if applicable. 

Commencement Sustainability

The Class of 2025 and their guests will likely notice the many ways Knox honors its commitment to sustainability throughout Commencement weekend. The following are just a couple of the sustainable features of Knox’s Commencement.

• All the caps and gowns are made from 100% recycled polyethylene. For every one of these gowns manufactured, the equivalent of 29 plastic bottles are recovered.
• Many of the 2025 graduates will wear green ribbons among their Commencement regalia. This signifies that they signed the Graduation Pledge for Social and Environmental Responsibility.

Campus Map

Commencement Schedule