Empire State University Commencement Closet

Let's face it, between school, work and family (plus dozens of other things you manage to squeeze into a day), life can be a juggling act. Finances get tight. Priorities shift. Time gets away.

Every now and then, you just need a little help. You're not alone. That's why we're here.

We believe every Empire State University student deserves the opportunity to attend their commencement ceremony, and that no one should miss it for lack of a graduation cap, gown or hood. You worked too hard and sacrificed too much to miss this milestone event.

Whether you're a current student in need of regalia or a former student looking to donate it, you've come to the right place. Empire State University Commencement Closet honors Empire State University's spirit of support and accessibility through graduation and beyond.

Have graduation regalia you no longer need? When you donate it to Empire State University Commencement Closet. You help students who don't have regalia walk across the stage and celebrate their hard-earned achievement. It's a simple gesture that makes a major impact.

We welcome donations year-round and accept gowns, caps and master's hoods. We'll even take care of laundering your pieces. Please note that all donated caps and gowns must be black.

There are two convenient ways to donate your regalia:
  1. Hand it to an Empire State University staff member at the end of a commencement ceremony.
  2. Mail it to Empire State University Commencement Closet, 2 Union Ave., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866-6079.

Thank you for your generosity and support for future Empire State University alumni like you!

"I applaud efforts to give every student the opportunity to take part in commencement. A room full of graduates moving our tassels together is a powerful moment where all of our individual stories of struggle, sacrifice and elation come together in one movement." - Jan Raeder '15, '18

To Borrow Regalia

Hoping to attend commencement, but have no regalia? We've got you covered!

Empire State University Commencement Closet loans gowns, caps and master’s hoods. We even take care of laundering the garments before and after your event. The cost? Nothing. We simply ask that you return your pieces after commencement so future students can benefit from them, as well.

When Empire State University Commencement Closet opens for the upcoming ceremonies, we'll send an email to students with instructions for submitting a request to borrow in April.

We look forward to seeing you at commencement!