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Commencement Information

The Commencement ceremony is the most important event of the year at Three Rivers College. It is a time to recognize our graduates, who we have come to know, encourage, challenge, and assist. Now to cheer as they celebrate their achievements.

The 2024 Commencement Ceremony is scheduled fstudents sitting at graduationor Friday, May 17, 2024, at the Libla Family Sports Complex on the Three Rivers College campus. The ceremony will begin at 6:00 p.m.

Graduates from the following semesters are invited to participate: Fall 2023, Spring 2024, and Summer 2024.

Three Rivers College will follow all local public health guidance to ensure the health and safety of our community when planning the celebration for the Class of 2024.

Beginning at 4:30 p.m., Three Rivers will run shuttles between the Libla Family Sports Complex and the parking lots across from the baseball field, in front of the Tinnin Fine Arts Center, in front of the Bess Activity Center, and at the Westwood Event Center.

Family and friends attending the ceremony should enter and exit the Libla Family Sports Complex through the Lobby doors at the front of the building. The public will not be allowed to enter or exit from the lower level (arena floor).

Graduates should enter through the upper level, south side doors and follow the path designated for them.

Upon completion of the ceremony, graduates and their families can meet under the tent on the south side of the Sports Complex.

2024 Commencement Schedule

  • 11:30 a.m. Rehearsal for graduates (rehearsal is not required but strongly encouraged).
  • 4:30 p.m. Doors open to the public.
  • 5:30 p.m. Graduates must be checked into the designated area for lineup wearing their regalia (cap, gown, and tassel).
  • 6:00 p.m. Ceremony begins.
a person in a graduation gown and cap with a girl in a cap

Three Rivers is currently accepting nominations for Graduate Stories for the 2024 Commencement Ceremony. Graduate stories are students who have shown exemplary determination and commitment in completing their degree from the following categories: First Generation, Family Affair, Non-Traditional, Military, International, and Dual Credit. Those eligible for recognition are graduates participating in the 2024 Commencement Ceremony.

The nomination deadline is April 8. The student, friends or family, faculty, or staff of Three Rivers can submit nominations. A committee drawn from College employees will choose the finalists. Complete the online form to submit a nomination.

Nominate a student to have their Graduate Story featured during Commencement

Important Dates

 

Fall 2023

  • October 1, 2023: Graduation application due
  • January 16, 2024 (approx.): Diplomas ready for pick up. Student will receive email when diploma is ready.
  • February 12, 2024: RSVP for participation in the Commencement Ceremony and regalia order requested.
  • February 23, 2024: RSVP for participation in the Commencement Ceremony and regalia orders due.
  • May 6-9, 2024: Regalia Distribution
  • May 17, 2024: Commencement

Spring & Summer 2024

  • February 1, 2024: Graduation application due
  • February 12, 2024: RSVP for participation in the Commencement Ceremony and regalia order requested.
  • February 23, 2024: RSVP for participation in the Commencement Ceremony and regalia orders due.
  • May 6-9, 2024: Regalia distribution
  • May 17, 2024: Commencement
  • June 3, 2024: (approx.): Diplomas ready for pick up. Students will receive an email when diplomas are ready.

Summer 2024 – Not participating in Commencement

  • June 1, 2024: Graduation application due
  • August 13, 2024 (approx.): Diplomas ready for pick up. Students will receive an email when diplomas are ready.

Graduation Checklist

  1. Meet with your Advisor and Register for classes
    Meet with your advisor and review your Progress on Student Planning for unmet requirements.
  2. Enroll
    Enroll in all required courses. (Note: in addition to enrolling in courses, you do have to complete them satisfactorilly.) If completing a requirement by way of transfer credit, enroll in coursework at the other institution and provide proof of enrollment. When the course is finished have your official transcript sent to the Office of the Registrar.
  3. Evaluation
    After enrolling, view your Progress on Student Planning to verify everything is complete.
  4. Apply for Graduation
    Submit a graduation application as soon as you have completed enrollment for your final semester. The due dates can be found under Important Dates listed above.
  5. Complete Required Classes
    Please contact your advisor if you are unable to successfully complete your courses.
  6. Check Email Regularly to Keep Informed
    The Office of the Registrar will send various emails throughout the Spring semester regarding the Commencement Ceremony.
  7. Confirm Participation in Commencement & Order Regalia
    An email will be sent to you in early February with information about the regalia order. Please check the Important Deadlines page for the deadline to order.
  8. Order announcements
    Graduation announcements and other gifts are available for purchase at The College Store.
  9. Invite Family and Friends
    There is no limit to the number of guests you may invite. We will have a live broadcast for your family and friends who cannot attend. The link can be found on the commencement page.
  10. Pick up Regalia
    When you submit your order for your cap and gown, you will choose which TRC location you wish to pick up your order. Please check the Important Deadlines page for the dates to pick up your regalia. You will receive an email with detailed information regarding your pick up location, dates, and times.
  11. Attend Commencement
    The ceremony will be held in the Libla Family Sports Complex on the Three Rivers College Poplar Bluff Campus. Graduates will access the building by entering through the far-left doors of the main entrance, on top of the hill. Graduates should be checked in to the designated area for line up at least 30 minutes prior to the beginning of the ceremony. Please make sure to allow adequate time for parking and shuttle ride to the complex.

Graduation Information

Three Rivers confers degrees for completed programs in December, May, and July of each year. Students who meet all program requirements should complete the application for graduation below. Applications should be submitted by February 1 for May and July graduation and October 1 for December graduation.

The annual Commencement Ceremony is held in May of each year. Students graduating in December are eligible to participate in the Commencement Ceremony the following May.  Students graduating in July are eligible to participate in the Commencement Ceremony in May prior to completing their degree or certificate. 

Graduation Application 

Students can apply for graduation by submitting the Graduation Application on their myTRCC account. Students should submit an application for each of their programs and certificates. Once the applications are submitted, the Registrar evaluates the academic record and students are notified via their TRC student email account of further direction. If students are required to take Capstone and have met the requirements, the Registrar will enroll the student in Capstone. 

Graduation Recognition of Honors 

For purposes of the Commencement Ceremony and graduation program, the cumulative grade point average after the preceding semester will be used to identify honor students. However, the final cumulative grade point average will be used to determine final honors status and will be noted on the official college transcript and diploma.

Students who are granted a degree with an overall grade point average of 3.50-3.69 will be designated Cum Laude. Students who are granted a degree with an overall grade point average of 3.70-3.89 will be designated Magna Cum Laude. Students who are granted a degree with an overall grade point average of 3.90-4.0 will be designated Summa Cum Laude.

Commencement Ceremony 

Students are not required to participate in the Commencement Ceremony, however we encourage you to do so. An email will be sent to potential graduates in early February requesting confirmation of participation in the ceremony. If you are participating, you will need to submit measurements for your cap and gown at that time. There is no charge for the regalia. However, if you order regalia and do not participate in the Commencement Ceremony, you will be charged $30.

Additional Information 

Final Transcripts Requests
Graduates are encouraged to preorder final transcripts and indicate on the request to hold these transcripts for degree. Transcripts will be processed once the student’s academic records reflect graduated status. Learn more about transcripts here.

Diplomas: Current Graduates
Diplomas will be printed after academic records are evaluated and degrees are posted on the academic record. When diplomas are printed, the student will receive an email to their TRC student email account informing them that diplomas are ready for pick up. We hold the diplomas in the Office of the Registrar for one week for students wishing to pick up the document(s). After one week, diplomas will be mailed to the student’s address of record. Students should confirm their mailing address before diplomas are mailed. We are not responsible for diplomas lost or damaged in the mail.

Diplomas: Replacements
Students can request a replacement diploma by submitting a Replacement Diploma Request. There is a $25 replacement fee, payable with the request. The student will receive an email once the diploma is printed, confirming it has been mailed or is ready for pick up. Please allow 5 business days for processing.

Commemorative Bricks
Leave your mark on the Three Rivers College Campus with an engraved brick! This year’s graduates receive a special rate if purchased by June 7.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to apply for graduation?

The simple answer is yes. You must apply for graduation. Three Rivers College has an enrollment of approximately 4,000 students who enter the College in different semesters and different years. Some have early college, advanced placement, or transfer credit, so they will complete their requirements more quickly than other students. Some are pursuing degree programs with different hour requirements. Some change majors or options and will need more hours to complete their recently declared major. With all those individual differences, it is nearly impossible for the College to determine who will actually be graduating when. So if you don’t apply for graduation, no one but you will know that you are planning to graduate.

When should I apply for graduation?

We encourage you to apply for graduation as soon as you have completed enrollment for your final semester. Applying early allows for time to resolve any unexpected problems.

When is the deadline to apply for graduation?

October 1 – Fall graduates
February 1 – Spring graduates
February 1 – Summer candidates wishing to participate in the Commencement Ceremony
June 1 – Summer candidates who do not wish to participate in the Commencement Ceremony.

How much does it cost to graduate?

There is no fee for graduation. There is also no charge for the regalia. However, if you order regalia and do not participate in the Commencement Ceremony, you will be charged $30.

Is there anything special I need to do if I take a course somewhere else during my final semester?

Yes. You will need to provide proof of enrollment for your application for graduation to be approved. You will then need to have your official transcript(s) sent to the Office of the Registrar when you complete the course.

What if I fail a course or get an incomplete in my final semester?

Candidates for graduation have three weeks after commencement to complete grades of incomplete, submit official transcripts from other institutions, and verify the accuracy of grades received. If you believe you have received an incorrect grade, please discuss it with the instructor. If a failing grade is received in a course you need to graduate; you will need to enroll in suitable course work in a subsequent semester and apply for graduation in that semester.

Am I required to attend the ceremony?

Graduates are not required to participate in the Commencement Ceremony; however, we encourage you to do so. An email will be sent to potential graduates in early February requesting confirmation of participation in the ceremony. If you are participating, you will need to submit measurements for your cap and gown at that time. There is no charge for the cap and gown. However, if you order a cap and gown and do not participate in the Commencement Ceremony, you will be charged $30. A word of caution: You may not wish to participate in commencement, but your family may have other ideas. Please discuss this matter with your family before declining to participate.

May I participate in commencement other than in the semester when I graduate?

The annual Commencement Ceremony is held in May of each year. Students graduating in December are eligible to participate in the Commencement Ceremony the following May.
Students graduating in July can participate in the Commencement Ceremony in May before completing their degree or certificate.

If my family cannot attend commencement, how can they see me graduate?

We will have a live broadcast for your family and friends who cannot attend. The link can be found on the Commencement page.

Where is the ceremony held?

The ceremony will be held in the Libla Family Sports Complex on the Three Rivers College Poplar Bluff Campus. The Libla Family Sports Complex is a 60,000-square-foot gymnasium that seats over 3,000 people and is home to the College’s Raiders and Lady Raiders basketball teams.

When is the rehearsal for the commencement ceremony?

The rehearsal is at 11 a.m. on the same day as the commencement ceremony at the Libla Family Sports Complex. Graduates are highly encouraged to attend rehearsal as every aspect of the ceremony will be reviewed. Please arrive 15 minutes early. You should not wear your regalia to rehearsal.

Where do I park on the day of the ceremony?

Graduates and guests can park in the parking lots across from the baseball field, in front of the Tinnin Fine Arts Center, the Bess Activity Center, and the Westwood Event Center. Designated pick-up and drop-off spots on those lots are marked with Event Pick-up banners. There will be shuttles running from the parking lots to the complex. Please allow adequate time for parking and a shuttle ride to the ceremony.
You may pull up to the front of the Libla Family Sports Complex to drop off family members, then proceed to park in the designated areas.

When do I need to arrive at the ceremony?

Graduates should check in to the designated place for line up at least 30 minutes before the beginning of the ceremony. Please allow adequate time for parking and a shuttle ride to the complex. Graduates should not bring any personal items into the lineup area.

What if I am late for the ceremony?

It is very important to arrive at least 30 minutes before the ceremony to allow adequate time for line up. Late arrivals will not be allowed to have a seat on the floor after graduates have been seated. If you are late, you will be placed at the end of the line. Do not be late!!!

How many guests may I bring to the commencement ceremony?

There is no limit to the number of guests you may invite.

Will my program of study be announced as well as my name?

No, program of study and degrees will not be announced, just students’ names.

Will we sit in alphabetical order or by program of study?

Graduates are not arranged by program of study or by name. Graduates are invited to line up with their friends at the rehearsal to increase the likelihood they will be seated next to one another at the ceremony,

How long will the ceremony last?

Traditionally the ceremony lasts 70 minutes.

How can I ensure my name is pronounced correctly during the ceremony?

A name card will be provided during the ceremony where graduates can write their name out phonetically. The name card will be provided to the announcer, so that they can announce the graduate’s name correctly. The graduate can also meet with the announcer during the rehearsal or before the ceremony.

Can I order graduation announcements?

Yes, graduation announcements and other gifts are available for purchase at The College Store. You can email collegestore@trcc.edu for more information.

What is the proper dress for the ceremony?

You must wear the Three Rivers College Commencement regalia consisting of the black gown, cap, and tassel. No corsages or other items may be pinned or worn on the gown.
As a rule, graduates should dress up but dress comfortably. This is a formal event. Avoid T-shirts or jeans and pick shoes that you can wear for an extended period.

Will there be a photographer?

Yes. All graduates will have a photo taken before the ceremony and another photo on the stage receiving their diploma cover. These photos will be available to download at no charge. Graduates should check their TRC email account in the weeks following the ceremony for information.

Who do I contact if I need disability support at the ceremony?

Graduates who anticipate needing accommodations to participate will submit this information with their regalia order. If you have specific questions, please contact the Office of the Registrar at registrar@trcc.edu.

Where is wheelchair-accessible entry and seating?

The wheelchair ramp is located on the northeast corner of the building. The wheelchair-accessible entry and regular seating can be accessed through the main entrance of the Libla Family Sports Complex. Individuals using a wheelchair and one guest will be positioned on the upper west side of the facility. Individuals with other accessibility needs will be assisted as needed.

How do I order my regalia?

You will submit your cap and gown order online.
In early February, an email will be sent to potential graduates with information about the regalia order. Please check the Important Deadlines page for the deadline to order.

Where do I pick up my regalia?

When you submit your order for your cap and gown, you will choose which TRC location you wish to pick up your order. Please check the Important Deadlines page for the dates to pick up your cap and gown.
You will receive an email with detailed information regarding your pick-up location, dates and times.

Do I get to keep my regalia?

Yes, the cap and gown are yours to keep. This allows you to get as many pictures as you desire, even with people who could not attend the ceremony. There is no charge for the cap and gown. However, if you order a cap and gown but do not participate, you will be charged $30.

Can I decorate my cap?

You can decorate your cap. All decorations must be on top of the cap without any items hanging from the sides. The decorations cannot have any profanity or inappropriate embellishments. You will be asked to remove the cap if it is inappropriately decorated.

Can I wear an honor cord from high school or another organization?

Only honor cords and veteran cords distributed by the Office of the Registrar, PTK stoles, and Alpha Delta Nu stoles may be worn during the ceremony.

What do PTK members wear for the ceremony?

PTK members wear a stole from PTK. You will not wear the tassel, medallion, or cord from PTK. You can order your stole directly from PTK at www.ptk.org.

How do I get my Alpha Delta Nu stole?

Members of the nursing program’s honor society, Alpha Delta Nu, will receive the stole at the Nursing Pinning ceremony.

How will I get my diploma if I do not attend the ceremony?

Diplomas are not handed out at the ceremony. Diplomas will be printed after academic records are evaluated and degrees are posted on the academic record. When diplomas are printed, you will receive an email to your TRC student email account informing you diplomas are ready for pick up. We hold the diplomas in the Office of the Registrar for one week for students wishing to pick up the document(s). After one week, diplomas will be mailed to the address of record. Please confirm your mailing address is correct on your myTRCC account before diplomas are mailed. We are not responsible for diplomas lost or damaged in the mail.

When will I receive my diploma?

You should receive your diploma within four weeks after the term you complete the degree requirements. When diplomas are printed, you will receive an email to your TRC student email account informing you diplomas are ready for pick up. We hold the diplomas in the Office of the Registrar for one week for students wishing to pick up the document(s). After one week, diplomas will be mailed to the address of record. Please confirm your mailing address is correct on your myTRCC account before diplomas are mailed. We are not responsible for diplomas lost or damaged in the mail.

What is on my diploma? When will I receive it, and how will it be packaged?

The diploma will show your name, your degree, honors, if applicable, and graduation date. Diplomas are 10″ x 8″ and printed in landscape format. You will receive an email when diplomas are ready to be picked up. If you do not pick up your diploma within one week, your diploma will be mailed to the address of record. It will arrive in a flat 9×12 cardboard mailer.

When do I get my diploma cover?

Diploma covers are presented during the ceremony to graduates who participate in the ceremony.

Can I get a replacement diploma?

Keep your diploma in a safe place.
Replacement diplomas cost $25 and may be ordered at https://trcc.edu/diploma-replacement-form/

How do I order a transcript?

You are encouraged to preorder final transcripts and indicate on the request to hold these transcripts for a degree. Transcripts will be processed once the student’s academic records reflect graduated status. Learn more about transcripts here.

What if I have questions regarding graduation and/or commencement?

Visit the Graduation webpage
You can also email us at registrar@trcc.edu, stop by the Office of the Registrar, or call the Office of the Registrar 573-840-9665.

Main Campus
2080 Three Rivers Blvd., Poplar Bluff, MO 63901
Office Hours: Monday – Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

P: (877) 879-8722 View all locations