Accessibility at Commencement
Amherst College strives for our campus experiences to be universally designed and usable by all people to the greatest extent possible. If students or guests require access accommodations, please contact the office of Conferences and Special Events at (413) 542-2845.
Captioning and American Sign Language (ASL) Translation
The ceremony will feature a large screen with closed captioning. In addition, there is a tent on the Main Quad for individuals with physical, hearing or vision limitations. The tent features a dedicated screen with live on-screen captioning, ASL interpretation and enhanced audio, as well as personal hearing assistance devices. For additional information, please contact the office of Conferences and Special Events at (413) 542-2845.
Indoor Viewing Location
Guests with health or safety concerns that necessitate being in an indoor and air-conditioned space (rather than outdoors) are invited to watch the Commencement ceremony in Stirn Auditorium, which is located in the Mead Art Museum.
Vehicles Accessing the Main Quadrangle for Commencement
The Commencement location has a small tent for seating on a first-come, first-served basis. While vehicles are not generally allowed in the Quad, passengers with special needs may be driven to the Quad; please speak with the College Police Officer at the Quad gate upon arriving.
On-Campus Shuttle Services
Shuttles will circulate campus on Commencement day to transport family and guests from the largest parking lots to the Main Quad. See shuttle routes on our campus map.
Parking
All Amherst College parking lots have designated accessible parking spaces (see accessible parking spaces on our campus map). In addition. Amherst College Police allow curbside drop off at the Main Quad for those needing special assistance prior to the Commencement ceremony.
Wheelchair Rentals
Wheelchairs can be rented at Taylor Rental located on Route 9 in Hadley (413) 584-4184, or at Mass Surgical Supply (413) 532-1401 in Holyoke. For further information regarding pick up and return, please call the vendors.