Expanded TCU Commencement is Weeks Away
The university is launching an expanded and reimagined commencement tradition May 8 and 9 to celebrate the accomplishments of students and prepare for TCU’s growth.
Commencement will include two special celebrations that blend TCU tradition and unique celebratory moments with the university’s remarkable growth and progress. Each student is invited to a whole-class graduation event Friday evening, as well as a more intimate academic ceremony the same weekend.
With the intention of creating a new tradition, the May 8 all-university commencement ceremony will move to the field at Amon G. Carter Stadium.
“In 2022, the Class of 2026 gathered on the field for their class photo — the only time the entire class was together,” Brad Thompson, executive director of university events, said. “Now, they’ll reunite on that same field for one final, unforgettable celebration.”
The all-class ceremony will include the official conferring of degrees by Chancellor Daniel W. Pullin, along with special moments, meaningful traditions and — true to TCU style — fireworks.
To further elevate the academic experience, each school and college will host its own academic convocation throughout Friday and Saturday. These ceremonies, led by each dean, will feature the calling of every graduate’s name, other college and school recognitions and the graduate’s walk across the stage.
“These are two distinctly different events. Think of the first as the bold celebratory moment — tossing the caps, turning the tassels,” Thompson said. “Then we also want to honor the personal academic journeys of our students and give our deans the opportunity to create ceremonies that are specific to their colleges and our families.”
These convocations will also provide more seating, avoid ticketing and ensure that every family member has the opportunity to attend. For families and friends unable to attend, all-university commencement and every academic convocation will be streamed live.
