Many people view commencement from the outside: a wonderful celebration of academic achievement and a time to celebrate graduates' accomplishments. By contrast, the commencement coordinator analyzes and implements each of the smaller parts that culminate in graduates crossing the stage and throwing their caps. The perfect commencement is contingent on many variables. These should be considered no matter the institution--public, private, large, or small. Commencement planners with a total of more than 30 years of experience at three institutions offer tips for planning or enhancing your institution's celebration.