The University Will Host its First Ceremony Solely for Graduate Students
Texas Christian University will recognize acclaimed filmmaker, writer and producer
Taylor Sheridan with an honorary Doctor of Letters degree on Friday, May 9, during
spring commencement, recognizing his significant contributions to the arts, the Texas
film industry, the greater Fort Worth community and TCU.
The weekend will also feature the university’s first ceremony solely for graduate-level
candidates, recognizing students from eight of its colleges and schools, including
the Burnett School of Medicine at TCU, as well as from Brite Divinity School. Along
with three May 10 ceremonies, the university will celebrate its largest class at over 2,900.
“Tradition has always been important to TCU. As we continue to grow, we’re committed
to doing so in ways that best serve our Horned Frogs,” said Brad Thompson, executive
director of university events and community projects. “Whether it’s evolving our commencement
ceremonies or offering real-world experiences like working with Taylor Sheridan, TCU
is leading with purpose — preparing students to step confidently into the future.” 
Sheridan worked with TCU to film the first season of his Paramount+ production Landman on the TCU campus. During this filming, 36 students from the Film, Television and
Digital Media (FTDM) program, 13 Track & Field student-athletes and six Theatre TCU
students gained direct experience on set. They worked alongside industry professionals
across departments such as camera, sound, locations, set decoration, costumes, props
and production assistance. More than 600 TCU students, faculty, staff and alumni also
participated as paid or volunteer extras.
Recent filming projects continued this momentum, engaging 36 FTDM students and more
than 300 TCU extras, further solidifying Sheridan’s role as a catalyst for student
development and professional networking.
“Taylor Sheridan’s work doesn’t just entertain, it opens doors,” said President Daniel
W. Pullin. The TCU Board of Trustees approved Sheridan’s honorary doctorate at its
spring 2025 meeting. “His investment in TCU’s students is building a new pipeline
of creative talent, giving Horned Frogs real-world experience at the highest levels
of the entertainment industry while reminding them that great stories can start right
here in Fort Worth.”
A Fort Worth native and Paschal High School graduate, Sheridan has become one of the
most influential storytellers of his generation. He is the Academy Award®-nominated
screenwriter behind Hell or High Water, the Emmy®-nominated creator of Yellowstone and the visionary force behind a slate of record-breaking series, including 1883, Tulsa King, Lioness, Mayor of Kingstown and Landman. His authentic, character-driven narratives have redefined American storytelling
across television and film. And he hasn’t forgotten home, filming frequently across the Fort Worth area
“Storytelling is about knowing where you come from and daring to imagine where you can go,” Sheridan said. “TCU students already have the drive, discipline and vision it takes to lead — all they need is the opportunity to step into their own story and own it.”
After the upcoming commencement, the more than 2,900 degree candidates from 46 countries
and all 50 states will do just that. Of those, 1,390 are set to graduate with Latin
honors, more than 50 with a 4.0 and 59 with double degrees.
Learn more about the schedule and details for TCU’s spring 2025 commencement.
Read more about the filming of the first season of Landman at TCU and the latest filming on campus.