If you're looking for cap and gown pickup information, details on what to bring to the ceremony, parking information and more, read these important Commencement Ceremony details.
Graduate Check-in and Lineup
Check-in time
Check-in time for graduates begins 90 minutes before the ceremony.
Please note that family, friends or other guests are not allowed in the graduate check-in area.
See the "Guest Information" and "Commencement Ceremony Location and Parking" sections below for guest information.
What to bring to check-in
Wear your cap & gown to check-in. Be prepared to open your gown for visual inspections.
Any cap mortar board decorations that raise the height of your cap are not allowed and will be asked to be removed.
Backpacks are not allowed. Please do not bring bags, purses, etc. as there is no secure location to store them.
Disability Accommodations
Participation in the ceremony involves significant walking, including on stairs, and graduates are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes.
If you need disability accommodations, call (970) 339-6388 or email disabilities@aims.edu.
Aims Community College is excited to welcome guests who wish to join us in celebrating our graduates. Here is some helpful information for guests to know before attending:
Arrival Time
Doors open to guests 90 minutes before the ceremony.
Tickets
Tickets are required to view the ceremony in person and seating is available on a first come first served basis. Students who are eligible to participate in the ceremony can request tickets during registration and will receive their tickets when they pick up their cap and gown. Guests can watch a livestream of commencement from home or if they do not have a ticket.
Disability Accommodations
To request guest seating accommodations or get answers to other questions regarding disability accommodations, call 970-339-6388 or email disabilities@aims.edu.
Commencement Ceremony Location and Parking
Commencement Ceremony Location
The ceremony will be at the Aims Welcome Center Auditorium, 4901 West 20th Street Greeley, CO 80634.
There will be a drop off area and shuttles available.
Accessible Parking
Accessible parking spots will be available in the Welcome Center north parking lot.
Vehicles must have a placard or license plate on display.
Questions About Disability Access?
Get answers to questions related to accessibility by calling 970-339-6388 or email disabilities@aims.edu.
Regalia and Mortar Board Decorations
Academic regalia is a tradition that celebrates and unites the graduating class. Graduates are required to wear regalia, which can be ordered for free via the Aims bookstore and includes a black gown, black mortar board and black-and-red tassel.
Accessories
Approved stoles, cords and pins provided by formally recognized programs, departments, clubs and organizations may be worn for the ceremony. A full list of approved accessories is available on the Commencement FAQ page.
Cap Decorations
Aims welcomes the tasteful decorating of your black graduation cap. Please be respectful of other graduates who may be sitting behind you. All decorations must be flat to the top of the cap. Any decorations that raise the height will not be allowed and will be asked to be removed.
Tassels
Graduates may choose to wear either the standard black and red tassel or the PTK gold tassel. Souvenir tassels are not permitted for the ceremony.
Cultural, Religious, and Tribal Adornment
Graduates may wear objects of cultural, religious, or tribal significance as adornment with their graduation attire. Adornments cannot replace or completely cover required attire.
Clear Water Bottles Only
The only food or drink allowed inside the auditorium is water in clear bottles. Guests will be asked to return water bottles that don’t comply to their vehicle or otherwise dispose of the item upon entry.
Strollers
Stroller parking is available. Aims is not responsible for items left unattended.
For a full list of permitted and prohibited items, please visit the FAQ page.
Clear Bag Policy
Aims Community College is committed to providing a safe environment for students, employees and guests. To expedite entry into the auditorium and ballroom, Aims has implemented a policy limiting the type and size of bags allowed into the venue. Exceptions to this policy will be made for medically necessary items after a thorough inspection.
Prohibited items include but are not limited to: Purses larger than a small clutch bag, briefcases, backpacks, computer bags or any bag larger than the permissible size.
The following bags are permitted in the Welcome Center:
- Bags that are clear plastic, vinyl or PVC and do not exceed 12” W x 12” H x 6” D
- One-gallon clear plastic bags (Ziploc or similar) are permitted
- One (1) personal item such as a small clutch or wallet not exceeding 4.5” x 6.5” in size
Guests are allowed one (1) large clear bag – either the 12” W x 12” H x 6” D clear bag or one-gallon Ziploc style bag – plus one (1) small personal item.
Visit the FAQ page for answers to frequently asked questions about the Aims commencement ceremony.