Frequently Asked Questions

• What is a presidential inauguration?

  The inauguration is a distinguished ceremonial occasion that formally commemorates the appointment of the university president, paying homage to the institution’s enduring traditions while signifying the commencement of a new chapter in its leadership.

• When and where will the inauguration take place?

  An inauguration typically refers to the entire series of events surrounding the formal ceremony of a new president. Inauguration activities will be held from April 16 to April 19, 2026.

  Investiture is the formal ceremony itself where the new president is given the authority and symbols of office. The investiture of Dr. Andrea Goldsmith as the seventh President of Stony Brook University will take place on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 11 am in the Stony Brook Arena.

• Is the inauguration open to the public?

  Yes, students, alumni, faculty, staff, and friends are invited to take part in the week-long celebration activities. Some events during the week may require a purchased or free registration ticket for entry. 

• Is RSVP required to attend the investiture ceremony?

  This is a free, general admission event open to members of the campus community and the public. Registration is required and will open on Monday, January 26, 2026. Please visit our website to register and for updates.

  Faculty are invited to join the academic procession. Registration is required, and all participants participating in the procession must wear academic regalia. Information on registration, regalia, assembly, and arrival will be shared in the coming weeks.

• What is the proper attire?

  For the investiture, attire will be determined by your role at the ceremony. 

  Processional participants: Wear your regalia attire to the ceremony. You may want to have a change of clothes for the reception afterwards to ensure comfort.

  General Audience: Business casual attire is the recommended dress code.

  Students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends (Not participating in the ceremony):  Business attire is also recommended, but feel free to showcase your Seawolf Pride by wearing red! It’s a special occasion, so dress accordingly while embracing your school spirit! 

• Where may I park on the day of the investiture ceremony?

  Parking information will be provided soon.

• Is the event accessible?

  Closed Captioning 

  The ceremony will be closed captioned. Closed captioning is available through your smartphone or tablet device. If you require equipment to access closed captioning, please contact inauguration2026@stonybrook.edu, iPads will be available upon request. A link to access live captioning will become available on the inauguration website the morning of the event. 

  Accessibility Information         

  Parking: Accessible parking is available in the LaValle Stadium, Gym Road, Indoor  Sports Complex (metered), and Chemistry lots.

  Seating:  Main Arena seating can be accessed from the Arena Lobby via elevator. Accessible seating is located on the Mezzanine in Sections 102, 106, 110, and 114,  including suite areas. There is an elevator in the lobby to access the mezzanine level

  Restrooms: Accessible restrooms with grab bars are available on the East and West sides of the Arena, and in the main lobby

  For special accommodations, please contact inauguration2026@stonybrook.edu

• How long is the ceremony?

  The duration of the ceremony is approximately 90 minutes.

• Will the ceremony be live-streamed?

  Yes, it will be live-streamed, and a recording of the ceremony will be posted on the inauguration website following the event.  A live stream link will be posted on the inauguration website the morning of the event.

• Do media outlets need a press pass?

  Yes, all invited media will be asked to RSVP in advance. Each day upon arrival, they will be checked in and issued a credential.