Two students posing with an alumni sign

Commencement Events

April 11 - Commencement Kickoff

Let the countdown to Commencement begin! Commencement Kickoff showcases the first day for which graduates (Bachelor’s, Master’s and Advanced Certificates) can pick up their guest tickets and purchase caps, gowns and accessories in the bookstore.

Ticket Distribution

Ticket distribution for the three ceremonies begins on Thursday, April 11th from 10:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. in the Barnes & Noble at SUNY Buffalo State University Bookstore.

Kickoff Fun

  • Selfie stations will be available so graduates can take pictures with their friends and celebrate their achievements.
  • Representatives from Alumni Affairs, Career and Professional Education Center, Graduate Studies and Academic Affairs offices will answer questions and provide information at the resource tables.

Can't Make It?

Candidates may receive guest tickets, and purchase their caps, gowns, hoods, stoles, and cords in the bookstore until Friday, May 17, during regular store hours. Bring photo I.D. to register and receive guest tickets.

May 15 - Graduation Photos

Please note this information is not associated with Commencement Photos taking place May 18th in the Sports Arena.

Graduating students are invited on Wednesday, May 15 from 12:00pm - 6:00pm in the Campbell Student Union to take photos with a professional photographer in their regalia, however, regalia is not required. The photos will take place on the social hall stage with a Buffalo State themed backdrop. Students are encouraged to bring family, friends, faculty, and anyone else they would like to celebrate with!

May 16 - Class of 2024 Senior Send Off

Join us for a Senior Send-Off party hosted by the Alumni Association! Celebrate with an evening full of fun, featuring music from alumnus, DJ Jett, '19, a photobooth, and free food and drinks! Any student who wants a drink needs to be 21 and up with a valid photo ID.

All Class of 2024 attendees will receive an EXCLUSIVE 2024 Senior Send-Off t-shirt! T-shirts will be live printed at the party by Buff-a-logo, co-owned by alumnus Erik Westfield, '11.

Don't miss out on this amazing chance to celebrate with your fellow graduates! Open to graduating seniors and graduate students.

Thursday, May 16, 2024

7:00 – 9:00 p.m.

At the Jacqueline Vito LoRusso Alumni & Visitor Center, corner of Grant St. and Rockwell Rd.

RSVP here: https://www.bengalconnect.com/event/10003441

May 17 - Commencement Preview and Celebration

Our Commencement Preview and Celebration is a Bengal tradition! All Graduates are invited to the celebration.

Join Us!

Buffalo State Sports Arena

Arrive at 2:30 p.m.
Event starts at 3:00 p.m.

Bring photo I.D. for entry.

May 18 - 152nd Commencement

Ceremonies by Academic Schools. Receptions immediately follow each ceremony in the Campbell Student Union.

9:00 a.m.

School of the Professions

Bachelor’s Master’s and Advanced Graduate Certificates

1:00 p.m.

School of Arts and Sciences

Bachelor’s Master’s and Advanced Graduate Certificates

5:00 p.m.

School of Education including Individualized and Multidisciplinary Studies

Bachelor’s Master’s and Advanced Graduate Certificates