Accessibility

Howard University respects and appreciates those celebrating Commencement 2025 who have accessibility challenges and need accommodations associated with the Americans With Disabilities Act. Please note the following information which will help ensure enjoyable participation in the ceremonies. It is strongly recommended that guests needing accessible seating arrive as early as possible. Gates open at 7:00 a.m.

Accessible Seating

Seating for guests with disabilities will be available on a first come, first served basis. To access accessible seating, guests must have an Accessible Seating Ticket. One companion may also be seated in the accessible seating section. The companion must also have an Accessible Seating Ticket. Once The Yard reaches capacity, guests with ADA tickets will be directed to accessible seating in designated overflow locations, including Cramton Auditorium, Burr Gymnasium, and Greene Stadium. Students will need to trade from their allocation of Regular Seating Tickets for Accessible Seating Tickets.

Entry Into the Yard

Guests who need to be seated in the accessible seating section must enter through Gate 1, located near the intersection of Sixth Street, NW and Howard Place, NW near Howard’s main entrance. Guests can not enter Gate 1 without an accessible ticket. 

Parking and Drop-Off for Guests Needing Accessible Seating

Guests who need ADA accommodations and accessible parking should park at the Howard Center Parking Lot, located at 2235 8th Street NW. Parking will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Please ensure your vehicle displays a valid disability placard or license plates. Shuttles will be available to transport guests needing ADA accommodations to the intersection of Sixth Street, NW and Howard Place, NW. Those having Accessible Seating Tickets may proceed through Gate 1 to the accessible seating section.

• Payment for parking should be done through the Run Parking company, either online or through the app. Parking lots will not accept cash. Access parking payment and reservation options and locate the Howard Center Parking Lot at 2235 8th Street, NW.

Accessible Drop-Off Only

Cars dropping off those needing ADA accommodations should drop guests at the intersection of Georgia Avenue and Fairmont Streets, NW. From there, the guest will need to make their way to Gate 1 if they have an Accessible Seating Ticket. It is recommended that a companion accompany those dropped off at Georgia and Fairmont. 

Captioning, American Sign Language (ASL), Assisted Listening, and Noise Reduction

Closed captioning will be available on designated viewing screens throughout The Yard. ASL interpreters will be on stage for all Commencement ceremonies.

First Aid

A First Aid station will be available onsite and staffed with trained medical personnel. In case of an emergency, please alert the nearest Howard staff or security personnel.

Restrooms

Designated ADA-accessible restrooms are located in front of Andrew Rankin Memorial Chapel (outside). All restroom stations throughout The Yard are ADA-accessible and include changing stations. Additional portable accessible units will be available near the perimeter of the event area.

Service Animals

Working service animals are welcome. Emotional support animals and pets are not permitted.

Wheelchairs

Howard University does not provide wheelchairs. Guests must bring their own mobility aids. 

Bag Policy, Prohibited Items and Medical Exemptions

Please see the HU Bag Policy.

Accessibility Inquiries

For additional questions about Commencement accessibility, please email the Howard University Office of Student Accessibility at accessibility@howard.edu or visit the Office of Student Accessibility webpage.