Meadows Spring 2008 Diploma Presentation Ceremony Information

Instructions for Graduation Candidates

Click here to visit the University’s commencement information page

Click here for inclement weather plan

Saturday, May 10 through Saturday, May 17
Pick up caps and gowns (and hoods for masters degree candidates) at the SMU University Bookstore, 3060 Mockingbird Lane, (214) 768-2435.  Store hours:  Monday – Friday 8:00am – 9:00pm, Saturday 10:00am – 9:00pm, Sunday 11:00am – 7:00pm.

Saturday, May 17
2:00 p.m.
Check the sign on the steps of Owen Arts Center to confirm the location of the ceremony.  Inclement weather may cause the ceremony to be moved to another location.  Please see alternate “inclement weather plan” instructions below.

4:00 p.m.
Reception hosted by the Dean in the Greer Garson Theatre Lobby for all graduates and their families and guests.  RSVP to your Major Division office if you plan to attend.

5:30 p.m.
Report to the main entrance of Caruth Auditorium in Owen Arts Center.  At the tables in the lobby, you will be given a card showing an assigned seat number in Caruth.  Go immediately to your assigned seat and remain there quietly until the processional begins.  Retain the card.  It contains your name and credentials which will be read by the student reader as you receive your diploma cover.  Changes to your credentials will be cause for delay of the ceremony and judicial action; if there are mistakes, report them to Chuck Donaldson or Janet Stephens (undergraduates) or to Jean Cherry (graduate students).

Please do not leave valuables in Caruth Auditorium.

6:20 p.m.
Processional begins.  Under the marshal's direction, you will exit Caruth Auditorium row by row.  It is important that you do not deviate from your assigned march order.  You will exit the building by the north door and proceed to your seating in the Dean Carole Brandt Garden (south courtyard).  Fill each row to capacity.  Remain standing until directed to be seated.

6:30 p.m.
Program begins.  For the presentation of diplomas your Division Chair will ask you to rise.

You will rise by row and, following the marshal, file to the south side of the platform where you will hand your card to the student reader at the microphone. Wait until your name has been read, then proceed to Dean Bowen who will hand you the diploma cover.

A professional will photograph you as you cross the stage, and after receiving the diploma.  Color proofs and ordering information will be mailed to the address you provide on the back of your credentials card.  Please notify your family of these arrangements.

Remain seated while the members of the platform party exit.  Once the recessional music is completed, all are dismissed.  CONGRATULATIONS!

No food, drink or smoking are allowed in the building or outside in the graduate section during the ceremony*.  Failure to comply with this regulation will result in the offender's removal from the ceremony and judicial action.*Each graduate will find a water bottle waiting for them in their seat.

* Return your gown to the Bookstore immediately after the ceremony. The Bookstore will be open until 11:00pm *