Ozarks Technical 
Community College

Commencement

As you are nearing the end of your time at Ozarks Technical Community College, let us be the first to offer congratulations on reaching this milestone in your education.  We look forward to seeing you at the Commencement ceremony, to be held at 6 p.m. on Thursday, May 13, 2010, at JQH Arena on the Missouri State University campus. All graduates from summer 2009, fall 2009, spring 2010 and those qualifying for summer 2010 are welcome to participate. 

Please complete the Application for Graduation Process. You must apply to graduate in order to receive your diploma or transfer to another institution.

Ceremony

On the day of the ceremony, all students intending to walk should report to the main floor of Hammons Student Center by 5 p.m. If you expect to require any assistance on the day of the ceremony, please contact Julia Edwards in Disability Support Services by emailing edwardsj@otc.edu or calling (417) 447-8188.

Caps, Gowns, and Proper Dress

Students who choose to participate in the commencement ceremony need to contact the OTC bookstore for their caps, gowns and graduation announcements. The OTC bookstore is located just west of the Information Commons West on the Springfield campus; the phone number is (417) 447-6620. The $30 graduation fee includes the cost of the cap and gown.

Please remember the proper dress for the commencement event:

• Women – Please wear appropriate shoes for walking.
• Corsages should not be worn on gowns. 
• Men – Please wear a collared shirt, long pants, and closed shoes.
• Everyone – Jeans are not appropriate dress for the commencement ceremony.  The tassel hangs from the right side of the cap.

Parking and Personal Belongings

Please remember to allow extra time to find parking on the day of the ceremony.  The parking garage will likely be the best place to easily find a parking place.  Graduates only are to report to Hammons Student Center; family and friends should go directly to JQH Arena.  Please leave all personal belongings with friends or family members before entering Hammons Student Center, as you will not be returning to that facility.

The Procession

When you arrive at Hammons Student Center, you will be provided with a name card and directions for the procession.  At this time, the professional photographers will begin taking posed shots in front of a backdrop.  Posed shots will only be available before the ceremony begins.  There will also be a photograph taken of each graduate receiving his or her diploma during the ceremony.

Also, please note that the walk from the south side of Hammons Student Center to the new arena is quite long.  If you plan to walk, please choose your shoes carefully, bearing in mind both comfort and appropriate appearance for the occasion.  If any student anticipates a problem with the walk, please contact Julie Edwards at (417) 447-8195, and see the designated assistance table immediately upon arrival at Hammons Student Center.

Exit Assessment Reminder

As you prepare to graduate, please remember to complete your exit assessment.  Contact Student Services at (417) 447-6900 to schedule your exit exam and to make sure you have completed all graduation requirements.

Diplomas and Student Transcripts

All academic records are evaluated before diplomas are disbursed. Diplomas are mailed to graduates from the Registrar's Office approximately six to eight weeks after the commencement ceremony is held. Transcripts verifying your degree/certificate are available approximately one week after the commencement ceremony.