Discover the essential details for parents and students as we prepare to celebrate this significant milestone. Here, you will find comprehensive information on accommodations, schedules, and other frequently asked questions.
Our commitment to excellence extends to every aspect of the commencement experience, as we honor the achievements of our graduating class with professionalism and class. Bookmark this page and check it frequently for updates and insights as we prepare for this memorable occasion together.
Commencement 2025
Sunday, May 25, 2025
9:30 AM - Mass @ Church of St. Gregory the Great
11:00 AM - Commencement Exercises @ Holy Lawn
12:30 PM - Reception for Graduates and Guests @ Auditorium
Please check back soon for more details related to the Class of 2025!
DOWNLOAD the 2025 COMMENCEMENT SCHEDULE
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
| When should we expect the formal Commencement invitation? |
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Formal invitations will be mailed to your home in late March - early April. If your mailing information has changed, please send updates to Lucy Thompsen at lthompsen@portsmouthabbey.org
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| How many invitations does each family get? |
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Each family will receive one formal invitation in the mail. If you would like an extra one as a keepsake, please contact Mrs. Lucy Thompsen at lthompsen@portsmouthabbey.org or 401.643.1242, and she will send one to you.
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| How many guests may a family invite? |
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Families may choose to bring up to 10 to 12 guests, including immediate family.
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| Which events are for students only? |
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The schedule will note which events are for students only and which are for parents only. If not designated, both are invited to attend. Please continue to monitor the website for updates.
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| What about special needs accommodation and accessibility seating? |
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We are collecting the names and contact information for each attendee via email at lthompsen@portsmouthabbey.org
Please also note guest(s) special needs in your email response.
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| Where can I find the full schedule of events? |
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A full schedule will be posted here by mid-March.
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| Do you offer a list of recommended accommodation? |
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There are a number of hotels within close proximity to the School.
Please click for list of Accommodation available.
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| Is there a required dress code for graduates over the weekend? |
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Sixth Form Dinner: Ladies – Beach Formal, Gentlemen - Jacket and Tie
Prize Day: School Dress
Commencement: Ladies – Modest White Dress, Gentlemen – Navy Blazer, tan/khaki trousers, white shirt and colored tie
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| Will graduates stay in the dorms Friday and Saturday night or will they stay with their parents? |
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Graduates have the option of staying with their parents on Friday and Saturday nights. Parents must contact Liz Cotta, ecotta@portsmouthabbey.org or 401.643.1247, for overnight permission.
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| Am I permitted to take photos and videos? |
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Photos and videos are permitted. Please note that the School retains professional photographers for each event. We ask that you be respectful of their space and not block their shots. Photos taken by the School photographers are shared with families online approximately 5-10 days following Commencement.
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| When do the graduates start packing and need to move out of their house? |
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Graduates will be expected to be fully moved out of their dorms and off campus by 4:00 on Sunday. Commencement typically ends around 1:00 p.m. For this reason, it is recommended you complete most or all of the move-out prior to Sunday. There is a block of time available on Saturday morning before Prize Day and we encourage families to use this time to their advantage.
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| When and where can students ship their belongings? |
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POST ALL will be on campus on Thursday, May 23 from 12:00 to 4:00 p.m.
Students will be able to ship their items home or directly to their colleges.
Additional details will be available early in the Spring Term.
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| What if it rains? |
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The ceremony will take place under the tent on the Holy Lawn, rain or shine.
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| Are tee times available over Commencement Weekend? |
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Yes, we are offering tee times for parents on Friday, May 24. Please email Lucy Thompsen at lthompsen@portsmouthabbey.org for reservations and guest policies.
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| If the graduate has a sibling at the school, is the sibling allowed special permission to attend family dinners on Friday and/or Saturday night? |
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Yes siblings will be allowed to attend Friday or Saturday night's dinner and the Saturday overnight. Parents must contact Liz Cotta ecotta@portsmouthabbey.org or 401.643.1247, for overnight permission.
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