Commencement is Thursday: What You Need to Know

by Greg Abazorius
a sign in a grassy area that reads "congratulations graduates!"

Commencement is less than a week away and, for the first time, will be taking place on a Thursday.  

The Wentworth Institute of Technology campus will host the 2025 Spring Commencement ceremony at 1:00 PM on April 17 and here’s what you need to know.  

Wednesday's Warm-Up: Rehearsal, Toast, and Awards 

Before the main event, graduates are encouraged to attend a special pre-commencement gathering at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, April 16 in Watson Auditorium. This "mini rehearsal" provides essential information about the ceremony, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience the next day.  

Following the rehearsal, attendees can enjoy a light brunch and participate in the Senior Toast, a chance for reflection and camaraderie. The event culminates with the Student Academic Awards presentation, recognizing the outstanding achievements of the graduating class. Don't forget to sign up to secure your spot! 

Thursday Morning: The Big Day Arrives 

The morning of April 17th will be buzzing with activity. Graduating students should make their way to Watson Auditorium between 11:15 AM and 12:00 PM for check-in.  

A new, efficient QR code system will be implemented this year. Keep an eye on your Wentworth email for a message containing your unique code. Download it to your phone's wallet or have it readily accessible for a quick scan upon arrival. Remember to also bring your cap, gown, hood, tassel, and Wentworth ID or driver's license. Honors and Veteran Cords will be distributed during check-in.  

By 12:25 PM, students will line up, ready for the processional to the commencement tent. 

For Family and Friends 

Doors to the commencement area open at 11:15 AM, and guests are encouraged to be seated by 12:15 PM. It's important to note that commencement is a ticketed event, and all available tickets have been distributed. Please ensure your guests have their printed or mobile tickets ready for scanning at designated entry points: 555 Parker Street near Tansey Gym, the West Lot entrance, and on the Pike walkway near the Mass Art Tree House. Campus will be closed to non-ticketed individuals until after the ceremony. 

Navigating Parking 

Parking on campus will be available on a first-come, first-served basis in the Halleck, Mindoro, and Annex lots. Accessible parking is designated in the West Lot for vehicles displaying a valid handicap sticker, license plate, or hanging tag. Guests without accessible parking designation can be dropped off at the West Lot entrance before the driver parks in other available campus lots or nearby off-campus parking.  

Public transportation or rideshare services are highly recommended due to limited parking. A list of nearby parking lots can be found on the commencement FAQ page on the Wentworth website. 

The Ceremony 

At 1:00 PM, the commencement ceremony will officially begin. This year's keynote speaker is esteemed Wentworth alumnus Michael Santora, founder and CEO of Logic, Inc.  

A 2005 Architecture graduate, Santora's journey from Wentworth to leading a cutting-edge logistics software and automation company is an inspiring testament to the power of a Wentworth education. His work at Logic, Inc., focusing on urban logistics, dark warehouses, and autonomous transportation, showcases the innovative spirit Wentworth instills in its graduates.  

Santora's career also includes co-founding Crown Holdings, a real estate development company, and serving as a principal at the international architecture practice Scott Brownrigg (SB+C). He currently serves as a Wentworth Trustee and is Chair of the Advancement Committee of the Board. He is an inductee of the WACE Hall of Fame. He was the first young alumni at Wentworth to endow a scholarship in 2015. He is a recipient of Wentworth’s Alumni Association’s Young Alumni Award (2015) and serves as Wentworth’s first Entrepreneur in Residence, where he helps to create corporate partnerships, drive interdisciplinary engagement, and mentor rising Wentworth entrepreneurs through Accelerate. 

Martin Mkohi, an Architecture major with a concentration in Emerging Technologies, will be the featured student speaker. Originally from Tanzania, Mkohi’s global perspective and passion for inclusive design have shaped his Wentworth experience. His co-op experiences at C Concept Design in the Netherlands and MIT, where he currently works as an Assistant Project Manager, highlight his practical skills and ambition.  

At Wentworth, Mkohihas been an active leader in the National Organization of Minority Architecture Students (NOMAS) and represented the university in the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) competition. Notably, he was involved in the design of the 2024 Boston Society of Architecture Awards Trophy, showcasing his innovative approach to design using computational methods and robotic 3D printing. His future aspirations in healthcare and technology architecture promise a bright and impactful career. 

Rose Conti, ’92, ’09, ’12, will kick off the ceremony, her first as newly elected chairwoman of Wentworth's Board of Trustees.  

Post-Commencement Celebrations 

Following the ceremony, graduates and their guests are invited to gather on the Quad for a celebratory reception. Complimentary light refreshments will be served in a festive atmosphere, providing an opportunity to take photos, connect with classmates, friends, family, and faculty before embarking on the next chapter. 

Important Information for Graduates

  • Diplomas: Keep an eye on your mailbox! Diplomas will be mailed approximately 5-7 weeks after the official graduation date, once all degree requirements are verified. They will be sent to the preferred shipping address provided in your graduation application. For any diploma-related inquiries, email [email address removed]. 

  • Transcripts: April graduates can order electronic PDF or paper transcripts online through Parchment. Remember to select the "Hold for Degree" option. Transcripts with degree information will be ready around three weeks after grades are posted. 

  • Sustainability: Wentworth is committed to green initiatives. Your caps and gowns are 100% recyclable. Commencement programs will be available digitally on the Wentworth website and via a print-on-demand option for a commemorative copy. QR code signs will be available for guests to easily access the digital program. 

  • Livestream: For those who cannot attend in person, the ceremony will be livestreamed starting at 12:35 PM EST. There are no campus viewing spaces for non-ticketed guests. 

  • Graduate Survey: Graduating students are encouraged to participate in a brief survey to share their hiring trends and future plans. Your feedback is valuable in helping Wentworth improve its programs and support future students. You can access the survey here.  

Remember to check your Wentworth email regularly for updates and important information leading up to the ceremony.