Commencement 2026
When will Bethel College's 2026 commencement ceremonies take place?
Sunday, May 10, at 4 p.m. in Memorial Hall on the Bethel College campus.
Where are we located?
Bethel College
300 E. 27th St.
North Newton, KS 67117
Tel: 316-283-2500 or 800-522-1887
All times indicated are Central Daylight Time, CDT.
Parking areas are designated on the map by a “P” which includes the Thresher Stadium parking lot, Kauffman Museum and Luyken Fine Arts Center (#20 on map).
Saturday, May 9
Commencement Rehearsal — 10 a.m.
Memorial HallCommencement rehearsal for graduates will take place Saturday, May 9, from 10-11 a.m. in Memorial Hall (#24 on map). The registrar’s office will send more details to graduates through campus mail at a later date.
Graduate Gathering — 11 a.m.
The Caf, Schultz Student CenterSpecial meal for all senior graduates, with presentation of senior gifts. Sponsored by the Bethel College Alumni Association, Student Alumni Association, Student Life, and President’s Office. Graduates only.
Sunday, May 10
Baccalaureate Service — 10 a.m.
Bethel College Mennonite ChurchBaccalaureate begins at 10 a.m. at Bethel College Mennonite Church (#4 on map), with worship, music and other content selected by a committee of seniors. Graduates do not need to wear their graduation robes, and are welcome to sit with their families.
Class Photo — 2:45 p.m.
Administration BuildingAll graduates report to the Administration Building steps (#1 on map) in cap and gown at 2:45 p.m. for a class photo. In case of severe weather, report to the Administration Building Chapel.
After the photo, graduates proceed to Luyken Fine Arts Center (#20 on map) to assemble and prepare for the commencement procession. All senior graduates are required to attend. In case of severe weather, graduates will receive alternate plans for the procession from the Registrar’s office.
Commencement — 4 p.m.
Memorial HallThe formal commencement ceremony will take place at 4 p.m. in Memorial Hall (#24 on map). The closest parking lot to Memorial Hall is the stadium parking lot. Other options include the Kauffman Museum and Luyken Fine Arts Center (#20 on map) parking lots.
Graduation robes, caps and tassels can be ordered and paid for through Thresher Shop in Schultz Student Center (#30 on map). The Thresher Shop will send out an email to graduates with more details. Order graduation announcements through CB Announcement online or by calling 800-433-0296. Order forms are also available in Thresher Shop.
A livestream link will be available to watch the event virtually.
Photographs
A photographer will be taking photos of graduates at baccalaureate and commencement, including graduates receiving their diplomas. These photos will be available to graduates and family members at no cost.
A link will be provided as soon as possible after May 10.