Duke University is dedicated to ensuring that commencement weekend venues and programs are accessible to all. Should you require accommodations beyond what is described in the following pages, please contact Duke’s Disability Management System at (919) 668-1267 or visit the Disability Management System website.
Find answers to frequently asked questions about disability services at Duke’s Commencement Ceremony.
Will there be transportation available on campus?
Yes. There will be shuttles running throughout campus.
View a route diagram for park and ride shuttles here.
Where is accessible seating?
Designated accessible seating will be located throughout the stadium and is intended for guests using wheelchairs, and/or persons with mobility, visual, or hearing impairments.
Three (3) companions may accompany each guest with a disability in these designated sections.
Click here to access a diagram of accessible seating at Wallace Wade Stadium.
What if I have a guest who is hearing impaired?
Assisted listening devices will be available at the Disability Management Services Tent.
An ASL interpreter will be stationed in front of designated sections.
A diagram showing the locations of accessible seating in the stadium will be available as we approach commencement weekend
Can the University provide wheelchairs for guests?
Duke does not rent wheelchairs for commencement weekend. For recommendations on local companies that rent wheelchairs, please contact the Disability Management System. A limited number of wheelchairs will available on commencement day to help transport guests from the stadium entrances to seating. Staff will collect the wheelchair once the guest has been seated.
What are the special needs accommodations for the other Diploma Ceremonies during the weekend?
Parking on campus is on a first-come basis, so please allow plenty of time for parking before events. Guests with mobility impairments may be dropped off in front of venues. However, it is important to visit individual event pages for more detailed information as well as for a contact person to direct any questions.
Where will parking be located for guests with mobility impairments?
Parking has been reserved in one of the closest lots to the stadium, the Grounds Lot, which is adjacent to the west concourse of the stadium. A state issued handicapped placard is required for ADA Parking. Overflow parking can be found in the Science Drive Garage on Level 2. If you have questions about this, please contact DMS.
View a map of available parking areas.
As campus will be crowded during commencement weekend, please consider your guest and the amount of travel it will take to get from place to place. It may be easiest to park at the location of your departmental ceremony since you will end your day there. Shuttles will be available to help take guests from general parking areas to the university-wide commencement ceremony and later the departmental ceremonies.