Q&A: Talking Grad Fest with the Associate Registrar

Krista Rothwell serves as the number two person in the Registrar’s Office. As Associate Registrar, she plays a hand in organizing Grad Fest, one of the marquee events of the spring semester–and entire academic year for that matter.

Grad Fest, originally conceived a few years ago, is blossoming into a joyous celebration of the graduating class. On April 15, graduates can pick up their regalia at Grad Fest, which marks the culmination of their long academic journey at the College. Grad Fest is a comprehensive event for graduates to resolve lingering issues before receiving their regalia.

It also serves as a time of celebration for graduates. Faculty and staff participating in this day-long event promote a celebratory atmosphere; after all, it is a moment of recognition for all the hard work this year’s graduating class has put in. 

Managing an event of this nature can seem overwhelming to an insider. And yet, Krista offers reassurance that the event will go off without a hitch — hopefully I did not jinx her or the event!

The Financial Aid Office recently spoke with Krista about Grad Fest and the Registrar’s Office’s role in it. An edited version of the conversation follows.

Financial Aid Office: What is Grad Fest?

Krista Rothwell: Grad Fest is a comprehensive event designed to support graduating students as they prepare for commencement. During the event, students can pick up their regalia and tickets while ensuring they have completed all required graduation tasks. These requirements included submitting the graduate survey, completing financial aid exit counseling for those who received federal aid, and confirming clearance with the business office. This event brings together representatives from key campus departments to help answer any final questions students may have. In addition, students can connect with the alumni office, take graduation photos, and receive important information about the commencement ceremony. Overall, Grad Fest provides a convenient, one-stop experience to help graduates finalize everything they need before their big day.

What makes Grad Fest a marquee event of the spring semester?

Grad Fest is a marquee spring event because it marks the beginning of the final steps in a student’s journey at GBC. It celebrates everything the students have accomplished while helping them complete the last requirements before graduation. It also builds excitement and anticipation for the Commencement Ceremony and their transition into the alumni community.

What should students know about this year’s commencement ceremony?

This year, GBC will be hosting our Commencement Ceremony off-site at the Chase Center on the Riverfront. This venue provides a larger space and ample parking. We’re excited to use this location to create a memorable experience for students as they mark this important milestone.

How can a student best prepare for Grad Fest?

The best way students can prepare for Grad Fest is to ensure they are on track to graduate. This process includes checking in with their academic advisor, confirming their tuition and student account balances are resolved, completing financial aid exit counseling if required, and staying on track to finish their spring courses. Taking these steps ahead of time helps ensure a smooth and enjoyable Grad Fest experience.

Help! I need to request an official transcript after I graduate. How does that work?

Graduating students can request an official transcript online through the National Student Clearinghouse at any time. During the ordering process, they can select the “hold for final grades” option, which allows our office to wait until all final grades are in the system. This option ensures the student’s conferred and completed academic record appears on their academic transcript before it arrives at its next destination.

What services does the Registrar’s Office offer to alums?

The Registrar’s Office provides several services to alumni, including official transcript requests, verification of enrollment or degree completion, replacement diplomas, and assistance with questions about their student records.

What is your role in Grad Fest?

My role in Grad Fest involves coordinating and organizing the event. I manage the ordering and distribution of student regalia, honors cords, and tickets, ensuring all materials arrive in advance. My goal is to ensure everything is well-organized so the event runs smoothly and provides a pleasant experience for graduating students.

How does it feel to watch another graduating class depart GBC in a few weeks?

This year feels exciting with the new venue, but it’s also more meaningful for me because I’ve been at GBC long enough to recognize many of the students walking across the stage. Although most of my work happens behind the scenes, it’s rewarding to interact with graduating students and know that I’ve played a small part in supporting their success and in helping them complete their degree. 

Thank you, Krista.