Commencement
The Commencement Committee of Northwestern cordially invites the Class of 1975 to mark the 50th anniversary of their graduation by participating in Northwestern’s 167th commencement ceremony.
Sunday, June 15, 2025
United Center
Chicago
Registration for commencement is now closed. If you have questions pertaining to your registration, please contact our office at reunion@northwestern.edu or 877-240-6512 (Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. CDT).
Event Schedule
8:30 a.m. Breakfast reception at the United Center's Ketel One Club; Class photo in caps and gowns
10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Commencement ceremony
Honored Commencement Speaker
Beloved comedian, actor and devoted father Steve Carell will address Northwestern’s Class of 2025 at the University’s 167th annual Commencement on Sunday, June 15.Carell is an award-winning actor, writer and producer, globally revered for his memorable work in film, television and theater, including his classic film roles in “Bruce Almighty,” “Anchorman: The Legend of Rob Burgundy,” “Crazy, Stupid Love,” and “Date Night.” Up next, he can be seen in the upcoming Netflix comedy “The Four Seasons” opposite creator Tina Fey.
Carell’s daughter, Annie, is a member of the Class of 2023 and a graduate of the School of Communication. His son Johnny, a member of the class of 2026, is a student in the School of Communication.
Carell will also receive an honorary degree of Doctor of Arts.
Read the full Northwestern Now story here.
Travel, Parking, and Accommodations
Free parking is offered to 50th Reunion alumni and their guests at the United Center. You will be receiving a parking pass along with your commencement ticket(s).
Please park in Lot G North and enter the United Center through Gate 1. MAP
Uber, Lyft, and taxis will drop off in the Uber Zone as shown on the map. Please proceed to Gate 1 to enter the United Center as close as possible to the Ketel One Club.
Recommended Attire
The recommended attire for this event is business casual. Caps and gowns will be provided for 50th Reunion alumni upon check-in at the United Center; sizing information is included in the registration process.The Class of 1975 will be seated with the graduating class during the Commencement Ceremony. Your guests will be escorted to VIP boxes to view the ceremony. Comfortable shoes for walking in the procession are suggested. Alumni will likely be waiting for 15-20 minutes in place for the ceremony to begin. Our photographer will take additional photos during this time.
Bags brought into the United Center may be no larger than 10 x 6 x 2 inches, and all bags will be inspected by security personnel upon entry. You may wear a small purse under your gown during the ceremony, but personal items may also be left behind at the Ketel One Club where they will be watched by Northwestern staff.