The activities that make up Commencement weekend express some of the best traditions of Southern Methodist University.

The Baccalaureate service on Friday evening enables us to worship together as an extended family. Later, as seniors march through the Rotunda of Dallas Hall for the tradition known as Rotunda Recessional, they mark the end of their undergraduate years and the beginning of their lifelong association with SMU as alumni.

On Saturday morning, the all-University Commencement Convocation assembles degree candidates from all of SMU's schools. Moody Coliseum becomes transformed by the pageantry. Students and faculty in academic regalia march following the colorful banners of their respective schools, accompanied by music and applause from proud families. Our Commencement speakers provide words of timeless wisdom, and the senior class presents its farewell gift to SMU. The personal attention so important to SMU takes center stage at ceremonies later in the day, when the schools and departments present diplomas individually to each graduate.

The spirit of community combined with our celebration of the individual is what makes SMU's Commencement a special time. We hope you will join us in May as we pay tribute to the achievements and potential of your loved ones, members of the SMU Class of 2008!
 

Sincerely,

R. Gerald Turner
President