Guest Information

Accessible Seating

Accessible seating is available to accommodate guests with disabilities along with one companion at both commencement venues. Upon arrival to the commencement ceremony, guests should check in with a staff member for assistance to the designated handicap accessible area. Wheelchairs are available for transport only. Seating is first come, first served and we advise arriving at least 30 minutes early to secure a seat.

Dining and Lodging

For information, visit the Visit Greater Grand Forks.

Alerus Center

Spring Commencement is held at the Alerus Center.

There are no limits to the number of guests graduates can invite to the ceremonies.
Guest seating: Guests will have multiple viewpoints to see their graduate throughout the ceremony. Guests have a great view of this special moment no matter where they're seated.
Tickets are not needed.
Doors to the seating area open 60 minutes before the Doctoral & Master's Degrees ceremony and 90 minutes before the Undergraduate Degrees ceremony.
Parking is free.
Parking is locating at the south and east lots of the Alerus Center.
Guests should enter Door #1 & #2 at the end of the Alerus Center.
Walk thru metal detectors will be in use for the Spring Commencement Ceremonies at all entrances. Attendees are encouraged to leave non-essential items at home or in their vehicle. Please limit your carry-in items to cell phones, keys, wallets, and small clutch bags. Camera bags are still allowed, but will require guests to go through secondary screening.
Prohibited items in the Alerus Center:
- Weapons of any kind
- Outside food/beverages
- Glass vases
- Helium balloons
- Air horns
- Alcohol
- Drones of any kind

Interstate (I-29)

Westbound from Highway 2

Chester Fritz Performing Arts Center

Winter and Summer Commencement Ceremonies are held at the Chester Fritz Performing Arts Center.

Graduates, guests, faculty, and staff may park in the lot south of the Chester Fritz Performing Arts Center.
Parking is free.
There are no limits to the number of guests graduates can invite to the ceremonies.
Tickets are not needed.