Information for news media covering 2019 commencement

LAWRENCE — The University of Kansas invites media to cover the university’s 147th Commencement on Sunday, May 19, beginning at 10:30 a.m.

At that time, graduates begin the traditional “walk down the Hill” to David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium, followed by a program and the conferral of degrees by Chancellor Douglas A. Girod. The ceremony lasts about two hours. 

Please note this change for 2019: News media still photographers will need KU credentials to shoot in the photo pen on the Campanile plaza. News organization credentials alone will not suffice. This change will make it easier for university staff to keep the area clear for news media and official KU photographers to do their jobs. For KU credentials, email KU News Service at ebp@ku.edu by May 8.

As in years past, because of space constraints, media members may not bring large video cameras with tripods in the photo pen. As always, only graduates are allowed to walk through the Campanile.

Members of the news media are welcome to capture photos or video of the events from any publicly accessible area. Graduates will be seated on the west side of Memorial Stadium with the platform party facing them.

As usual, unmanned aerial systems, including drones, are prohibited anywhere near David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium or the Campanile during the event, per Federal Aviation Administration regulations.

Nearly 2,300 parking stalls are available a short distance from Memorial Stadium, and a complimentary shuttle service will run May 19. Additional details, including an inclement weather plan, are available on a new commencement app or at the commencement website.