Duke University is committed to making Commencement weekend accessible and welcoming for all guests, including those with disabilities or mobility needs. This page highlights key accessibility features and resources available during the university-wide Commencement Ceremony.
If you or your guests require accommodations beyond what is described here, please contact Duke Access & Accommodation Services (DAAS) at (919) 668-1267 or visit the DAAS website for more information. You can also fill out the Visitor Accommodation Request Form and DAAS staff will respond in a timely fashion.
Accessible Transportation
On Campus Transportation
Shuttle services will run throughout campus on Commencement Day, and accessible shuttle vans are available for guests who need additional assistance getting around.
View a route diagram for park and ride shuttles here.
Off Campus Transportation
Guests who need accessible transportation to locations not on campus should contact Carolina Livery at least 2-3 weeks prior to Commencement Day.
Accessible seating at Wallace Wade Stadium
Designated accessible seating is provided at the top of each section along the concourse, one row of accessible seating at the front row near the field and limited accessible seating in the Devil’s Deck at Wallace Wade Stadium for the university-wide Commencement Ceremony. The front row of accessible seating is accessed by an elevator located near section 32. An accessible restroom is available at the field level. Each accessible seating area includes space for persons with mobility (including wheelchair users), visual, or hearing impairments, and up to one companion.
Accessible seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Staff will be present to help direct guests to accessible areas.
View a diagram of accessible seating at Wallace Wade Stadium.
Several accessible restrooms and a family restroom are provided along the concourse.
Hearing Assistance
Assisted listening devices will be available for those who are hearing impaired at the DAAS concession booth located at the top of Sections 23 and 24.
An American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter will also be stationed on the stage.
Captions will also be provided at the bottom of the Videoboard.
Mobility Devices & Wheelchair Support for Guests
For guests traveling to Duke who are unable to bring a mobility device with them but will need one while they are in Durham, an assortment of mobility devices is available to rent locally from Gurley’s Medical Supply. View more information regarding rental equipment list and rates. It is recommended to contact them at least 3-5 days prior to when you need it.
Duke University does not rent wheelchairs for Commencement weekend. However, a limited number of wheelchairs will be available on Commencement Day to be loaned out to assist guests from the stadium entrances to seating areas. Staff will push the guest in the wheelchair to an accessible seat and return to pick them up after Commencement is completed.
Accommodations for other Graduation Ceremonies
Many schools and departments hold separate ceremonies throughout Commencement Weekend. Accessibility arrangements, such as drop-off locations and nearby parking, may vary by venue. Check the individual event pages for details and contact information.
Please see the Duke Accessibility Map for help with accessible routes around campus. For assistance navigating between ceremonies or events, please contact Chris Sparrow, (919) 667-4879, Christopher.sparrow@duke.edu.
Accessible Parking & Drop-Off
Accessible parking and drop-offs are provided to support ease of access to the university-wide Commencement Ceremony.
View a map of available parking areas.
- Designated accessible parking spaces are located the Grounds Lot, which is adjacent to Wallace Wade Stadium’s west concourse.
- A state issued handicapped license plate or placard is required for ADA Parking. If you or other family members attending Commencement Weekend and are foreign travelers or need accessible parking, DAAS can assist you with obtaining temporary accessible parking passes for campus events.
- Additional overflow accessible parking is available in the Science Drive Garage on Level 2.
- Shuttles are available to transport guests from general parking areas to event locations, including departmental ceremonies. View a route diagram for park and ride shuttles here.
Please plan extra time for parking and travel as campus will be busy throughout the weekend. It may be easiest to park at the location of your departmental ceremony if you will end your day there.
If you have questions, please contact DAAS.