When and Where is the 2024 Commencement Ceremony?

Thursday, May 23rd at 6:30pm in the Coalinga High School Bowl. 

• Address: 750 Van Ness St, Coalinga, CA 93210
• The CHS Memorial Bowl is located on Sunset Avenue between Cambridge Street and Baker Street.
• There is limited parking available on a first come-first served basis near the entrance gate to the CHS Memorial Bowl. Additional parking is available at Coalinga College, a short walking distance away.
• We recommend car pooling where possible.

When should I arrive?

If you are graduating, please be sure to RSVP at the link in your student email. If you did not receive a link to RSVP contact us at registrar@whccd.edu 

• Graduates should arrive at the Coalinga High School Gymnasium an hour prior to the ceremony at 5:30pm.
• Guests should arrive between 6pm and 6:30pm at the Coalinga High School Memorial Bowl (Gates open at 5:30pm).

What should I wear?

• Graduates should wear their regalia over semi-formal attire and comfortable shoes. The ceremony is held on a grassy surface, so please be cautious in wearing heeled shoes. 
• Guests should wear business casual or semi-formal attire.

Where can I purchase my commencement regalia?

• The deadline to order commencement regalia and receive it prior to graduation is April 12th.
• You can also borrow a cap and gown from our office if you would like to participate in commencement but did not purchase regalia in time. We have a limited supply of caps and gowns to lend out. If you are interested, please email registrar@whccd.edu 
• Regalia will be mailed directly to you. Please be sure to enter your valid mailing address when you place your order. 

Will my family and friends be able to attend?

• Graduates are encouraged to invite all family and friends. There is no specified limit to the number of guests per graduate, and guests do not need to RSVP.
• Seating is available on a first come, first serve basis until filled.

Can I participate in commencement without regalia?

No, the cap and gown are required to take part in commencement. If you aren’t able to get regalia, please contact registrar@whccd.edu for assistance. A stole is not required but can be worn with the regalia.

Can I decorate my grad cap?

Yes! We encourage tasteful decoration.

Will I get my diploma/certificate at the ceremony?

No, you will receive a diploma cover. Your diploma/certificate will be mailed approximately 8-12 weeks after the commencement ceremony.

What happens if I didn’t complete my degree?

Even if you did not complete your program in the 2024 Spring term, you can still participate in commencement. You will be able to celebrate graduation, but you won’t receive a diploma or certificate until your program requirements are complete.