Commencement 2026

Questions & Answers

When and where will commencement be held?

Commencement will be held on Saturday, May 2, at 4:30 PM at Dimnent Chapel at Hope College, 277 College Ave, Holland, MI  49423.  

Will commencement be livestreamed?

No, commencement will not be livestreamed. However, it will be recorded. A link to the recording will be emailed to graduates after commencement.  

Is there a restriction on the number of family and friends who can attend commencement?

No, there is no restriction on the number of guests you may invite. Tickets are not required.  

Who is the commencement speaker?

Dr. John Brogan, Dean of Faculty. LINK to more information about Dr. Brogan. 

When do I pick up my gown, cap, tassel, and hood (GCTH)?

You may pick up your GCTH at the front desk on Friday, May 1, between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, or on Saturday, May 2, between 11 AM and 12:45 PM.  

When and where is the rehearsal?

Rehearsal is on Saturday, May 2, at 1:45 PM. Graduates will arrive in their assigned home rooms, line up in order, and walk to Dimnent Chapel for rehearsal, which starts at 2:00 PM. Graduates MUST have their gown, cap, tassel, and hood with them.  

Is rehearsal mandatory for all graduates?

YES, rehearsal and group photos are mandatory. If you have an extreme reason that keeps you from attending rehearsal, you must contact the Faculty Marshal, Professor Sue Rozeboom at sue.rozeboom@westernsem.edu, at least two weeks in advance. 

How can I purchase my individual and group photos?

You do not need to purchase them! A couple of weeks following Commencement, WTS will email you a folder containing all of the photos. You can download and print any of them that you would like. 

What time do the doors open at Dimnent Chapel for commencement guests?

Doors into the sanctuary for guest seating will open at 3:45 PM.

Where can graduates, family, and friends park on the day of commencement?

Parking is available on the WTS campus as well as on nearby streets. Hope College has also made available to us parking in lot 12 by the A. Paul Schaap Science Building. (This is for the events of commencement day only.)  There will also be a limited amount of handicap parking in the north staff lot closest to Dimnent Chapel. 

Is there a reception following commencement?

No, this year we will not be hosting a reception following the ceremony, to allow you and your family and friends to enjoy the remainder of the day. However, we will be hosting a brunch from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM in the Commons. You and your family and friends are welcome to attend. Faculty and staff will be present to celebrate with graduates.  

Is there a Blessing Service this year?

Yes, the Blessing Service is taking place the same day as commencement, Saturday, May 2. It will be held at 10:15 AM in Mulder Chapel. The service will be bilingual, and family and friends are welcome to attend!  

Do I keep my GCTH?

Graduates who are participating in the commencement ceremony may keep their gown, cap, tassel, and hood/stole. 

If I have questions regarding commencement, to whom should I direct them?

Please direct your questions to Theresa Hamm at theresa.hamm@westernsem.edu. She will direct questions to the applicable person or department.