Commencement Logistics and Seating Logistics Shaw University’s Commencement Exercise will be held in the downtown Raleigh Convention Center on Saturday, May 8, 2021. Tickets WILL BE required for admittance, and seating is first-come, first-seated. Students will be updated with the details, including the number of tickets Seating Doors open approximately 30 minutes before the ceremony. No one will be permitted inside prior to that time. All guest, students and staff must participate in a wellness check with staff/security before entering the Raleigh Convention Center (RCC). Guests should arrive in time to park and be seated at the Raleigh Convention Center no later than thirty (30) minutes before the start of the ceremony. Seating is on a first-come, first-seated basis. Guest should be prepared to seat together as a group. It is advised that guest arrive together before entering the building. Chairs in the event center are not permitted to be moved. To ensure the comfort of our guests and in accordance with local fire safety laws, aisles must be kept clear at all times. Guests are asked to cooperate with ushers and public safety officers and to keep designated areas clear.