INFORMATION FOR
Please join us as we celebrate at our Graduate Commencement Ceremonies on Wednesday, May 20, 2026 at Wightman Stadium on William Paterson’s main campus. President Richard J. Helldobler will confer degrees on doctoral and master's degree candidates from the University’s four colleges.
PARKING FOR WIGHTMAN STADIUMThe Wightman Stadium is located next to Lot 2 and the Parking Garage. Use Entry No. 5 from Hamburg Turnpike, Entry No. 1 from Pompton Road, or Entry No. 6 from Belmont Avenue onto University Drive and follow University Drive to the Parking Garage. For the campus map and directions click here.
Guests with accessibility issues may be dropped in the circle by outside of Ben Shahn. University Police personnel and volunteer staff will be stationed in several areas within the parking lot to facilitate this process and provide parking directions for all vehicles.
ENTERING WIGHTMAN STADIUMTickets are required for entrance. Each student will be given the opportunity to reserve e-tickets for their guests. Each e-ticket is uniquely bar-coded and can be printed or forwarded to a guest’s phone for scanning at the entry. Seating at Wightman Stadium is both bleacher seating and on the field and will be available on a first come first serve basis. Those with accessibility issues will be accommodated in field seating as best as possible. Balloons, beach balls, and noisemakers are not permitted in the arena.
PHOTOGRAPHYGrad Images is the ceremony photographer and will be taking pictures of each student as they process to the stage, with their diploma cover, and are recognized by the administration. You will be able to view the photos online and purchase directly from Grad Images. Check the Grad Images website closer to the event for more information on how to obtain photos from the William Paterson University ceremony.
GIFTS FOR GRADUATESFlowers and T-shirts by Commencement Flowers Inc.Flowers, official Class of 2026 commemorative T-shirts, and other gifts will be available for purchase outside of Wightman Stadium. Please note that outside flowers may be brought into the stadium.Commencement Flowers Inc. is a William Paterson University licensed vendor for the William Paterson University Commencement ceremonies.
