Before the Ceremony

The commencement ceremony is a traditional, formal exercise and as such should be conducted with dignity, splendor, and respect for fellow classmates and guests.

It's important to follow our Graduate To-Do List to help yourself and your family prepare fully for the day-of ceremony. 

Take me to the List

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The Ceremony

The commencement ceremony will be held in Laurie Auditorium on upper campus.  

All Graduate Degree Candidates
Arrival and check-in

Candidates will assemble in their respective locations no later than 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 20, 2025.

Students who are not checked-in by 9:15 a.m. will not be permitted to participate in the ceremony.

Bachelor's Candidate Check-In Location: Stieren Theater
(located in the Ruth Taylor Theater building)

Master's Candidate Check-In Location: Richardson Communication Center Room 319
(located in the Laurie Auditorium building)

10:00 a.m. | Ceremony Begins
Location: Laurie Auditorium

Note: There is no rehearsal. The marshals will give you full instructions before the ceremony in your check-in location listed below.

Families and Guests

Families and guests should arrive at least 45 minutes before the ceremony starts to have adequate time to park and find their seats.  View more information for quests.

10:00 a.m. | Ceremony Begins
Location: Laurie Auditorium

After the Ceremony

You did it, congratulations!

Immediately following the ceremony, graduates will recess from Laurie Auditorium and walk past the Magic Stones through a tunnel made up of faculty congratulating them on their accomplishments. The graduates will arrive at the Center for the Sciences and Innovation (CSI) Cube and Atrium, where they can meet up with their families.
 

Light Refreshments

Location: Magic Stones
Time: 11:00 a.m.

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Photographs

Dr. Beasley posing with student who received their diploma


Purchase your graduation photos from The Grad Team
All graduation photos taken by The Grad Team at the ceremony will be available online for purchase. Each graduate will receive an email with a link to their photos as soon as they are ready.

The Grad Team website

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Strike a pose at our photo booth post-commencement!
Join us at Miller Fountain for some epic selfies, group shots, and memories with your squad and fam!

 

Take advantage of our designated photo-op areas
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Meditation Garden
Take it all in. This Insta-worthy, tranquil spot on campus features fountains and a garden.

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Miller Fountain
Enjoy the sounds of Miller Fountain one last time. 

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The Magic Stones
All of those days of studying and soaking up the magical powers paid off, because you did it!