COVID Policies

• Will Reunion & Commencement be an in-person event this year?

  A: It is our intention to celebrate Reunion & Commencement Weekend in-person and on-campus. Anyone planning to attend any portion of the weekend must register in advance.

  All University visitors and attendees at Wesleyan-sponsored events – both on and off campus – must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. “Fully vaccinated” means receiving a booster shot within 30 days of CDC eligibility. By registering for this event, you, and additional guests you register, attest to being fully vaccinated. Please visit the Keep Wes Safe website to review safety guidelines.

Campus Housing

• Will on-campus housing be available?

  A: It is our intention to offer dorm rooms to alumni on a first-come, first-served basis starting in Spring 2022 (when Reunion & Commencement registration is available). Most rooms are singles or doubles.  All have twin beds and beds can be pushed or moved together. If you secure on-campus housing, specific room assignments and keys will be available when you arrive on campus for the weekend. Dorm rooms are sold out for Reunion & Commencement 2022. 

• If I receive on-campus housing, how will I know what to bring and where to go?

  A: Basic linens, a light blanket, a pillow, and a towel are provided, but please bring whatever else would make you feel more at home, such as an extra blanket, hair dryer, mirror, alarm clock, your favorite pillow, extra clothes hangers, reading light, radio, extra towel, or fan. Most rooms are doubles (two twin beds) with some singles. There are no private bathrooms. When you arrive on campus, please check in at Registration, where you will receive your room assignment and keys.

• Is it possible to have a room next to my classmates?

  A: Where possible, members of the same class will be assigned rooms in the same halls. This is not guaranteed. 

• Will there be housing available on campus for parents?

  A: Since many students will remain in their rooms during the weekend, we cannot provide on-campus housing for parents. We urge you to reserve rooms at a local hotel. Please be sure to make note of your hotel cancellation policies. 

• Where can alumni stay if they do not reserve a dorm room?
  A: A list of suggested hotel accommodations for alumni celebrating reunion can be found on the Reunion & Commencement website.

Commencement

• Will guests be permitted for Commencement?
  A: It is our intention and hope to celebrate Commencement in May 2022 with family and friends. We do not anticipate limitations to the number of guests attending the outdoor ceremony on Andrus Field, however, we will continue to assess conditions of the pandemic and will provide updates if any modifications are required. Per COVID-19 campus visitor guidelines, all guests attending Commencement must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. “Fully vaccinated” means receiving a booster shot within 30 days of CDC eligibility. By attending the Commencement ceremony, you attest to being fully vaccinated. We ask that you continue to make note of safety guidelines outlined within the Keep Wes Safe website.

• What time is the Commencement ceremony and how long does it last?
  A: The Commencement ceremony will begin with the procession at 10:45 a.m. and the ceremony will begin promptly at 11 a.m. on Sunday, May 22 and last approximately 2.5 hours.

• Do parents or others attending the festivities need to pay for any of the weekend activities?

  A: WESeminars, other activities, and parties are free. Breakfasts and snacks are available throughout the weekend for purchase on-site a la carte. Lunch and dinner on Friday and Saturday and brunch on Sunday requires advance payment. You can register for all meals online beginning Spring 2022.

• Are there printed graduation announcements available to students and families?
  A: Yes, printed graduation announcements will be made available to seniors in March. The senior class dean will be in touch with students to provide pick-up details.

• How and when do graduating seniors order regalia?
  A: Students may purchase their cap and gown regalia (via credit card) from the following Oak Hall website:  https://wesleyan.shopoakhalli.com/purchasewizard/Welcome.
  Students will either choose a Bachelor Package, Masters Package, or Doctor Package. The website will guide you to the correct gown size by asking height and weight questions. All Bachelor Regalia will be shipped to the Wesleyan R J Julia Bookstore and will be available for pick up starting Monday, May 9th. Students will have until Monday, March 28^nd to purchase their caps and gowns online. 
  Deadlines are final. Students that miss deadlines will have the opportunity to purchase their regalia at the Wesleyan RJ Julia Bookstore in May, however it is highly recommended that they purchase their regalia now.

• Is there a still photo taken of my graduate during Commencement? How do I order one?
  A: Yes. Wesleyan has partnered with GradImages and professional photographers will be at the ceremony to take a candid photograph. You may pre-register for photos and receive a coupon for 20% off your entire order.

   

• What is the dress code?

  A: Unless otherwise noted, all of the weekend’s events are informal. Dress casually and comfortably (and bring clothes that are weather appropriate, since many events are held outside).

• I'm attending the ceremony with guests who have mobility challenges. What arrangements are available for them?

  A: There is a seating section for people with access needs. Please complete and submit the Accessible Seating Request Form to reserve up to 3 seats in the accessible seating area.  You will receive an email with a copy of the request you have made.  A confirmation email will also be sent on the Wednesday prior to Commencement.  If you need additional information or assistance, please send your inquiry to RCADArequest@wesleyan.edu. 

  The ceremony will be simulcast in the Memorial Chapel, Patricelli ’92 Theater, Ring Family Performing Arts Hall, and Tishler Lecture Hall (Room 150) at Exley Science Center, rain or shine. The ceremony may also be viewed online on the Reunion & Commencement website. 

• When do students need to move out of their campus housing?

  A: Seniors must be moved out by 4 p.m. on Monday, May 23.

• Whom can we contact with questions about student housing?

  A: Students who have questions or who need assistance with a Residential Life related matter should submit a help ticket through their WesPortal. A ticket can be submitted in WesPortal under Offices & Services > Residential Life > Submit a ResLife Inquiry, or you may contact the Office of Residential Life at 860-685-3550.

• Whom can parents and families contact if we have further questions?
  A: For general questions about the weekend activities, email the Office of Alumni and Parent Relations at rc@wesleyan.edu.

Meals

• Do I have to register ahead for meals?

  A: Yes! To be guaranteed meals, help keep our catering costs down, and reduce waste you should purchase meals in advance when you register. Please purchase meals when you complete your online registration. Limited meal tickets may be available for purchase at on-site Registration during the weekend. 

• Do I need to purchase meal tickets for my graduating senior, or can they use their meal plan?

  A: Yes, you do need to purchase tickets for your graduating senior if they are planning to attend any of the ticketed meals during the weekend.

• Do you mail meal tickets out once you have received my completed registration form?

  A: We do not mail meal tickets. When you arrive at Registration to check in, you will receive the appropriate meal tickets in your Reunion & Commencement Weekend welcome packet. 

• I am a vegetarian. Will vegetarian meals be available?

  A: Vegetarian alternatives are offered at every meal.

• Will liquor be available over the weekend?

  A: Bars will be available at most luncheons, dinners, and campus parties. Most bars charge for beverages (cash only and venmo). Please remember to bring a photo ID.

• I have allergies or other dietary restrictions. Can Wesleyan accommodate?

  A: Yes! Please make a note in the dietary restrictions section when you register.

• Is Wesleyan offering dinner on Saturday night?

  A: All parents will need to make their own arrangements for dinner on Saturday. Alumni classes will hold traditional Reunion Class Dinners on campus.

Parking

• How do we get to campus from the Middlesex Corporate Center Parking Garage?

  A: The garage is within walking distance from campus (about two blocks). 

• Is there a fee to park at the Middlesex Corporate Center Parking Garage?

  A: Yes. University guests will be charged a nominal hourly rate at the garage during Reunion & Commencement Weekend.

• What parking provision has been made for persons with disabilities?
  A: Throughout the weekend mobility impaired guests may park in the "E" lot (located on Wyllys Avenue adjacent to the Office of Admission).

  On Sunday mobility impaired guests may park in C Lot located on Church Street, west of the intersection with High Street or E Lot located on Wyllys Avenue adjacent to the Office of Admission.  University staff and students driving golf carts will be available at each lot to assist in transporting guests to-and-from the accessibility section on Andrus Field. Drivers are also encouraged to drop of guests on Wyllys Avenue and then park elsewhere.

  Spaces are available on a first-come, first-served basis. 

  Please see the Accessibility map of campus for details.

Registration

• Who should register?
  A: Anyone planning to attend any portion of Reunion & Commencement Weekend should register in advance. All University visitors and attendees at Wesleyan-sponsored events – both on and off campus – must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. “Fully vaccinated” means receiving a booster shot within 30 days of CDC eligibility. By registering for this event, you, and additional guests you register, attest to being fully vaccinated. 

• My reunion was virtual last year, can I celebrate my reunion on-campus this year?
  A: All alumni are welcome to attend general programming throughout Reunion & Commencement Weekend (WESeminars, campus picnic, etc). Please note that specific programs are planned for classes ending in "2" and "7". Additionally, our limited dorm space is prioritized for alumni in these classes.

• Why should I register?

  A: Anyone planning to attend any portion of Reunion & Commencement Weekend should register in advance. All University visitors and attendees at Wesleyan-sponsored events – both on and off campus – must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. “Fully vaccinated” means receiving a booster shot within 30 days of CDC eligibility. By registering for this event, you, and additional guests you register, attest to being fully vaccinated. 

  Additionally, advance registration allows us to reserve meals for you and your family/guests and to ensure that we have enough space for class-specific events. 

• How do I register?

  A: Registration will be available on the Reunion & Commencemet website beginning in Spring 2022. 

• Whom do I contact if I have questions about my registration?

  A: If you have questions about your registration, need to make changes, or plan to check in after 9 p.m., please contact the Office of Alumni and Parent Relations at rc@wesleyan.edu.

• What do I do when I arrive on campus?

  A: Visit the Registration site in Exley Science Center, 265 Church Street (map). There you will receive a final schedule, meal tickets, and other important information that will help you navigate through the weekend.

• What are Registration hours?
  A: Registration hours 

  Thursday, May 19:  2-7 p.m.
  Friday, May 20:      8:30 a.m. – 9 p.m.
  Saturday, May 21:  8:30 a.m. – 9 p.m.
  Sunday, May 22:    8 a.m. – 2 p.m.

• Why should I check in if I have registered in advance?

  A: The online schedule of events is always current but subject to change. Everyone should check in at Registration to receive a nametag, meal tickets, and other essential information. 

• Where is the Registration located on-campus during Reunion and Commencement Weekend?
  A: The on-site Registration location is the lobby in Exley Science Center, 265 Church Street.

Accessibility for Persons with Disabilities

Wesleyan University is committed to making its educational programs and facilities accessible to people with disabilities. Reasonable accommodations can be provided by departments, programs and event organizers at the request of guests and visitors with disabilities. Accommodations that are considered reasonable are those that do not fundamentally alter the nature of the institution's programs and policies, and do not place an undue hardship on the institution. Reasonable accommodations are distinguished from services of a personal nature (such as provision of wheel chairs, personal care assistance, etc.) which the university does not generally provide. For more information visit:  http://www.wesleyan.edu/studentaffairs/disabilities/visitors.html

• How might I obtain a wheelchair for use during the weekend?

  A: Wesleyan is committed to full access for all people. While we cannot provide wheelchairs on a rental basis we suggest you contact one of the following companies to make temporary arrangements. Please continue to check back as updates are made to this page.
  
  Ellsworth Medical 
  540 Windsor Avenue 
  Windsor, CT 
  (860) 298-9333 
  $50 per chair for the weekend Friday through Monday (pick up only). Approx. $200 charge for delivery. 
  
  Volusia Medical Supply 
  (866) 956-2025 
  www.volusiamedicalsupply.com 
  Weekly Rental: $70 for Up to 250 pounds.  $85 Delivery to local hotels.

  APEX Pharmacy 
  2380 Dixwell Avenue 
  Hamden, CT 
  (203) 281-6571 
  $25 Daily; Pickup Only
  APEX also offers transport chairs for$15 daily.

• I am a vegetarian, should I make special meal provisions?

  A: A vegetarian meal option is provided at every meal. 

• I have allergies or other dietary restrictions. How do I let you know what they are?
  A: The accommodation of dietary needs is possible in most cases. Please make a note in the “dietary restrictions” section when you register.

Transportation

• How do I get from my hotel to campus?
  A: Although some hotels provide limited shuttle service (please check with your hotel’s front desk), we encourage you to rent a car, or share a ride with another Wesleyan guest.

• How do I get to campus without a car?
  A: Public transit is an available option for anyone hoping to come to campus without a car. For most, this will involve taking a train from New York or Boston into New Haven. From New Haven Union Station, transfer to the Hartford Line/Amtrak Hartford Line north to Meriden, and from there transfer to the 590 bus. The bus will drop you off at the Middletown Bus Terminal on Main St. Please note that all CT Transit buses in CT are free April through June. (https://www.cttransit.com/news/three-month-suspension-bus-fares-statewide-starts-april-1)

• Will there be a shuttle service available on campus?
  A: Wesleyan's Transportation Department  will provide limited campus-operated shuttles which will run regularly between Middlesex Corporate Center Garage, Middletown’s Main Street, and all sites on campus. You can flag down a shuttle or call (860) 982-8031 to arrange for a ride. Please allow at least 30 minutes for all requests during the weekend. 

  Shuttle Hotline

  (860) 982-8031  - Please allow at least one half-hour for all requests during the weekend.

  Shuttle Hours

  • Thursday, 2 p.m.–9 p.m.
  • Friday, 9 a.m.–10 p.m.
  • Saturday, 9 a.m.–10 p.m.
  • Sunday, 9 a.m.–2 p.m.

  Shuttle Pick-up and Drop Off Locations

  • Wyllys Avenue: Registration, Usdan University Center, College Row, Center for the Arts
  • Middlesex Corporate Center Garage (two blocks from campus at the junction of Court and Main streets)
  • Inn at Middletown: 70 Main Street
  • Church Street: Olin Library, Exley Science Center, Public Affairs Center, Clark Hall, Judd Hall
  • Freeman Athletic Center: Cross Street Entrance
  • Vine Street Parking Lot
  • Wesleyan R.J. Julia Bookstore, 413 Main Street, near the intersection of Washington Street

WESeminars

• What are WESeminars?

  A: WESeminars are stimulating educational presentations by Wesleyan faculty members, parents, alumni, and students which enable participants to rekindle their connections to Wesleyan and gain insight into the teaching and scholarship that take place at the University today.

• Can anyone attend a WESeminar?

  A: WESeminars are open to all members of the Wesleyan community on a first-come, first-served basis.   

• Are there any fees involved in attending a WESeminar?

  A: WESeminars are presented without charge and include all classroom materials. 

• How can I find the location of each WESeminar?
  A: Building and room assignments for all WESeminars are listed online.