UC Santa Barbara Announces Webcast of Commencement Ceremonies; Construction on Highway 217 May Cause Delays

With commencement activities for 2012 officially under way, UC Santa Barbara is announcing two major developments: one for those planning to attend upcoming ceremonies, and one for those who've wished they could.

Guests meant to be on campus this week, and this weekend, should allow for extra travel time. Those traveling north on U.S. 101 may experience intermittent traffic delays due to ongoing roadwork on Highway 217, near the main entrance at Henley Gate. Meanwhile, even globally located friends, family, and fans of UCSB will be able to watch the new crop of grads receive their diplomas, thanks to a live webcast of the six ceremonies set for Saturday and Sunday.

"One of the happiest and proudest moments for our campus community each year is when we come together to say ‘congratulations' to our graduating students," said Chancellor Henry T. Yang. "We applaud our students' dedication and accomplishments, and we take great joy in celebrating this commencement milestone with our 5,958 graduates. This year, we are delighted to be able to share the celebration not only with those attending our ceremonies, but also with all of our proud family members and friends around the world who will join us via our commencement webcast."

The webcast of the ceremonies will begin at 8:30 a.m. Saturday and continue all day, through the 9 a.m., 1 p.m., and 4 p.m. events. The same schedule will be observed on Sunday.

Highway 217, the only road into the campus's main entrance at Henley Gate, has been undergoing repairs and improvements –– and a continued lane closure –– for several months. UCSB asks for your patience during these intermittent delays as traffic approaches campus. Please follow EVENT PARKING signs to commencement parking lots. Transportation and Parking Services staff will be on site directing traffic at key locations to get you parked in a timely fashion.

Guests traveling south on U.S. 101 should take the Storke Road/Glen Annie Road, turn right and proceed to the campus entrance via El Colegio Road, following EVENT PARKING signs to available commencement parking.