Commencement Day Information

Rehearsal and Check In

There are no rehearsals for commencement. Graduates are expected to arrive at Wisdom Gym inside the Kinesiology Building no less than 1 hour prior to their ceremony for processional assembly.

Access to Wisdom Gym for graduates is only through the main south entrance. No guests will be allowed in Wisdom Gym.

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

Graduates will be led from the gym to the stadium by student marshals. Once at the stadium, graduates will be seated on the field.

Following the ceremony, all graduates will be led out of Memorial Stadium. Dismissal will be onto Rudder Way.

Guests should report directly to Memorial Stadium. No guests will be allowed in Wisdom Gym.

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.

NO spike heels of any kind will be allowed on the field. Square heels, flats, and tennis shoes are acceptable.

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 Memorial Stadium for the ceremony, so carrying items will be difficult.

Please note: The stadium commencement 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 be lead from Memorial Stadium and will be dismissed onto Rudder Way (North side of Wisdom Gym). There are many picturesque spots along Rudder Way and throughout the campus for celebration photos. Designate a place to meet your guests after the ceremony outside of Memorial Stadium.

Ceremony Length/Duration

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

Prohibited Items

The following are prohibited inside Wisdom Gym and Memorial Stadium 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.