Grad Grounds: Post Commencement Celebrations
Post commencement receptions, aka Grad Grounds, is a longstanding tradition at SMC.
Celebrate your milestone achievement of graduation with those closest to you right here on campus! Grad Grounds, formerly known as "Plots," is a signature, one of a kind event only at Saint Mary's College of California where graduates, family, friends, SMC staff and faculty all come together and celebrate at different locations on campus. It’s essentially one giant party. Seize your opportunity to celebrate in this unique tradition!
Grad Grounds Plot Layouts are complete!
Click on the pdf below to view the Grad Grounds Plot Layouts and find your Plot!
Your exact Plot location will be sent via email from gradgrounds@stmarys-ca.edu.
Register your Grad Grounds Caterer here
Grad Grounds Showcase
Mark your calendars for Thursday, March 7, 2024 at the Soda Activity Center: 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Vendors will be on campus exhibiting their services, from event rentals to caterers and photographers, you can plan your post-Commencement reception right here at SMC before plot reservations open on Tuesday, March 12, 2024.
Reception sites are reserved on a first-come, first-served basis. During the application process, reception sites will remain available until the designated capacity is reached. Grad Grounds questions may be directed to Meetings, Events, & Conference Services at gradgrounds@stmarys-ca.edu.
You are welcome to arrange your reception site as you wish; enjoy a family potluck or have your reception professionally catered. Please review the Grad Grounds Guidelines for catered events. Application will be available March 12, 2024 at 8 a.m.
Important Dates
Thursday, March 7: Grad Grounds Showcase in the Soda Center from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Tuesday, March 12: Online Applications for Grad Grounds open at 8 a.m.
Thursday, March 21: Online Applications Close at 5 p.m. (or sooner if all plots are reserved)
Thursday, March 28th: Grad Fair in the Soda Center from 10:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Friday, March 29: Receipt Confirmations (Tentative Assignments and links to Required Documents)
Friday, April 12: DocuSign, Catering Information & Payment Deadline - extended to Sunday, April 14th due to site errors.
Wednesday, May 1: Grad Grounds Plot Assignments Posted (Revised; previously Friday, April 26)
Friday, May 24 at 12 p.m.: Undergrads can start setting up Grad Grounds plots
Saturday, May 25 after Commencement: Grad Grounds until 4 p.m.
Saturday, May 25: 4 p.m. until 6 p.m. Grad Grounds Cleanup