Family and Guests

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Last Updated: Aug 06, 2024, 11:33 AM

The Commencement ceremony is an important occasion not only for the candidate, but also important for other graduates, families, and friends. Although it is a happy time, it should not be a time of revelry. Conduct by all at the ceremony should be dignified. Alcoholic beverages may not be brought into the ceremony facilities by degree candidates or by guests. Security personnel will be on hand to deal with alcohol or other distracting objects.

Directions to the Banterra Center

The Banterra Center's address is 1400 Arena Drive, Carbondale IL. 

View on Google Maps.

Parking

Due to the large crowd anticipated for commencement, we encourage you to arrive early. We will utilize Banterra Center lots 18 and 56 and lots 52 and 37. Drop off for guests with limited mobility is available at the west side of the Banterra Center (off Douglas Drive), and designated parking for vehicles with disability plates or placards is located in Lot 52. 

View Campus Parking Map

 

Guest Seating

SIU Commencement ceremonies will take place in the Banterra Center, 1400 Arena Drive, Carbondale IL.

Seating for all guests is on a first-come, first-served basis. We urge guests to be seated 15 minutes before the ceremony. No tickets are required.

Download a diagram of the seating inside the Banterra Center.

Accessibility

The Banterra Center is compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Seating for wheelchairs and people with limited mobility is available throughout the concourse level on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information regarding guests’ special-needs accommodations, contact University Events at 618/453-7424 or email events@siu.edu.

Students with disabilities should contact Disability Support Services at 618/453-5738 to discuss specific accommodations that can be made.

There will be an American Sign Language interpreter at all commencement ceremonies.

International Visas

Please contact Center for International Education at (618) 453-5774 for assistance in obtaining an international visa.

Lodging and Dining

Southern Illinois has many fine restaurants to celebrate the special occasion and great lodging to house all of our guests. Please visit the websites below to find various lodging and dining sites in the area surrounding SIU. Please note, many restaurants have adjusted capacity and procedures to comply with state and local COVID-19 guidelines. Reservations are strongly recommended.

Flowers

A beautiful variety of fresh flowers and gifts will be available to browse and purchase on location on the day of commencement. If you would like to conveniently pre order, click the button below.

Gifts for Graduates

Photographs

Graduation photography is provided by GradImages.  Find your SIU Graduation photos!

Discouraged Items

To be mindful of other guests attending commencement, balloons, balloon bouquets, signs or anything that obstructs the view are discouraged in the Banterra Center. Please leave these items in your car. Noise makers including air horns and cow bells are discouraged. No alcohol or tobacco products. Outside food and drink may not be brought inside the Banterra Center. Firearms and fireworks are prohibited. Pets are not allowed. All bags may be subject to inspection at all entries to the Banterra Center.