Rehearsal and Check In

There are no rehearsals for commencement. 

Undergraduates report to Wisdom Gym (Kinesiology building).

Graduate students (doctoral/masters) report to Campus Recreational Building.

All graduates report to assigned locations no less than 1 hour prior to their ceremony for processional assembly.

No guests will be allowed in Wisdom Gym or Campus Rec.

The processional will leave from Wisdom Gym/Campus Rec to the EECU Center 15 minutes before the ceremony start time, so it is critical to arrive on time. The distance from Wisdom Gym to the EECU Center is two tenths of a mile. The processional will move at a brisk pace.

Graduates will be led to the EECU Center by student marshals. Once at the EECU Center, graduates will be seated on the floor.

Following the ceremony, all graduates will be led out of the EECU Center. Dismissal will be out of the EECU Center Champions gate.

What To Bring

Graduates should arrive at check-in dressed in regalia (cap, gown, stoles, and cords). Masters and Doctoral students should bring their hoods to check in.

Dr. Hurley has declared all commencement ceremonies a “casual celebration”. We recommend clothing appropriate for forecasted temperatures to be worn under your gown. Clothing and shoes should be comfortable.

What Not To Bring

Do not bring purses, bags, etc. Leave those items in a locked vehicle or with a family member for safe keeping. Tarleton State University is not responsible for lost or stolen items.

Please remember graduates will assemble at Wisdom Gym and walk to the EECU for the ceremony, so carrying items will be difficult.

Please note: The clear bag policy will be enforced for all graduates and guests.

Please note: some streets will be barricaded to create safe pedestrian passage or enhance traffic flow.

Where To Meet Family Afterwards

Following the ceremony, graduates will exit from the EECU Center via the Champions gate. There are many picturesque spots throughout the campus and along Rudder Way for celebration photos. Designate a place to meet your guests prior to the ceremony.

Ceremony Length/Duration

We anticipate ceremonies lasting 90 to 120 minutes long. Please plan accordingly.

Prohibited Items

The following are prohibited during Commencement Ceremonies: laser pointers/laser pens, prohibited weapons, glass containers or cans of any kind, large purses or backpacks, wrapped gifts, noise makers, fireworks, outside food and beverage, use of tobacco products of any kind (including electronic & vapor cigarettes), large signs, signs with glitter, flags, sticks (including selfie sticks), poles & large banners, animals other than service animals, beach balls, helium balloons, the use of skate shoes, and any item or action deemed to threaten public safety.

Diplomas

Diplomas will be mailed to graduates 8-10 weeks following the ceremonies to the address graduate provided on the graduation application.