George Mason University is committed to providing inclusive and accessible commencement ceremonies and events in which the entirety of the GMU community (students, faculty, staff, and guests) can fully participate. In addition to providing effective communication access through the provision of sign language interpreters and captioning at these events, if you or a family member or guest has a disability-related access need to participate in commencement or would like accessibility information please reach out.
Graduating students will connect directly with Disability Services at [email protected] or by calling 703-993-2474 to discuss accessibility requests for the commencement ceremonies.
Faculty/staff, families, guests, and community members will connect directly with the Office of Access, Compliance, and Community at [email protected] or by calling 703 993-8730 to discuss accessibility requests for the commencement ceremonies.
Accessible Parking and Entrances
need to coordinate with Jessica (EBA), individual colleges, and Concert Hall?
include location of elevators?
Accessible parking for graduation ceremonies at George Mason University’s EagleBank Arena is located in Lot A, outside the south entrance
EBA – Accessible Parking and Drop-Off
- Location: Lot A, directly outside the south entrance of the arena.
- Directions: Use the Roanoke River Road or Nottoway River Lane entrances off Braddock Road to reach accessible parking spaces.
CONCERT HALL – Accessible Parking: Free accessible parking is available on Mason Pond Drive directly in front of the Center for the Arts with a valid DMV-issued accessible permit or hangtag.
Drop-Off Zones: A designated drop-off zone sits directly in front of the venue for guests needing to avoid longer walks.
Sign Language Interpreters and Captioning
Graduating students who require ASL interpreting services for their participation in graduation or related activities should contact Aja Puopolo directly at [email protected].
work with Aja to get specifics
get specific row numbers for seating in the spaces
An assistive listening system for our hearing impaired guests is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Headsets are available at the event in our Guest Services office.
Accessible Seating Areas
Eagle Bank Arena (EBA) has accessible seating located around the venue. The ASL interpreters are visible from section 102 or your mobile device. For more information please visit the Eagle Bank Arena website.
EBA – Seating and Venue Access
- Accessible Seating: Available in Rows E, F, and G across all sections.
- No-Stair Entry: Enter at the concourse level to reach these rows without climbing stairs.
- Wheelchair Spaces: Designated wheelchair-accessible seating is located in Sections 4, 8, 13, and 17.
CONCERT HALL – Seating and Venue Accommodations
- Accessible Seating: Wheelchair-accessible spaces and companion seating are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Assistive Listening: FM assistive listening devices (72MHz) can be picked up at the Concert Hall Courtesy Desk in the main lobby.
Service Animals
George Mason University welcomes guests accompanied by trained service animals. Service dogs must be individually trained to perform specific tasks related to a person’s disability and must remain under the control of their handler at all times. Only animals that meet the definition of a service animal under the Americans with Disabilities Act are permitted to accompany a person with disabilities into GMU facilities.
In accordance with university policy, emotional support animals are not permitted at commencement ceremonies.
Wheelchairs, Motorized Scooters, and Canes
provide some local rental options?
CONCERT HALL – Wheelchair Assistance: Courtesy wheelchairs are available at the drop-off zone to transport guests to their assigned seating areas and back.
A2Z Mobility Medical Supplies 703-344-1016
Lactation, Nursing, and Accessible Restrooms
provide list of lactations rooms around campus but may need specific rooms in EBA and Concert Hall
Accessible Bathroom, Lactation Rooms, and Gender-Neutral Bathrooms
- CONCERT HALL – Restrooms: Fully accessible restrooms are available inside the facility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Will the stage be accessible at the commencement ceremony for individuals with mobility needs?
A: Yes, the stage in Eagle Bank Arena has a ramp and can be accessed by wheelchairs. (need to add in Concert Hall specifications…)
Q. If I am a wheelchair user will I still be able to sit with my class or will I have to sit elsewhere?
A. Chairs can be removed on the floor for graduates in wheelchairs so that they may sit with their class. Please reach out to [email protected] in advance to ensure that the seating arrangements are prepared in advance of the commencement ceremony.
mobility question – can companion push me across stage? will they be provided a chair?
Q. Can I have a companion with me for assistance during the commencement ceremony?
A. Yes, but the companion will need a ticket to enter the arena with the graduate. A chair will also be provided for the companion so that they may sit with the graduate as well.
mobility – where can I get picked up
ASL questions