Rotunda Recessional
Friday, December 20, 2019 at 5:00 p.m.
Starts at the historic Main Quadrangle. Rain location is at Hughes-Trigg Student Center Commons.
You do not need to RSVP for this event. Family and friends are invited to come watch the candidates walk from the historic Main Quadrangle through Dallas Hall.
December Commencement
Saturday, December 21, 2019 at 9:30 a.m.
Doors open at 8:00 a.m., guests are encouraged to be seated by 9:15 a.m. No outside food or drink is permitted in Moody Coliseum.
Moody Coliseum
3009 Binkley Avenue
Dallas, Texas 75205
Seats for Guests
Candidates are not limited on the number of guests at December Commencement in Moody Coliseum, and passes are not required. Seating in Moody Coliseum is not guaranteed and is on a first come basis. Saving seats is not permitted. If the venue reaches capacity, guests will be directed to a simulcast location. The ceremony is a lengthy and formal event not suitable for infants or young children. The ceremony will also be live streamed at smu.edu/live.
Security Screening and Prohibited Items
All guests are screened with a hand wand or metal detector; all bags are checked.
Prohibited items include, but are not limited to, animals (except service animals), backpacks, banners, binocular cases, briefcases, camera bags, cans, cinch bags, computer bags, coolers, diaper bags, fanny packs, firearms, flags, glass items, guns, inflated balloons, knives of any size and type, laser pointers, luggage, noisemakers, purses larger than a small clutch, radios, seat cushions with zippers, pockets or compartments, selfie sticks, signs, stun guns, throwing objects, umbrellas (unless threat of rain or raining), and weapons. All bags must be clear plastic, vinyl or PVC and may not exceed 12 X 6 X 12 inches. Bags may be one-gallon clear plastic resealable storage bags. Small clutch purses with or without straps, no larger than 8.5 X 5.5 inches, are permitted. The clutch does not have to be clear and may be carried separately or within an approved plastic bag. Items that are medically necessary are evaluated individually. Strollers are permitted; however, they must be left at the Moody box office upon entering the building. Please silence all cell phones.
Guests with Impairments
Guests with impairments may park on the second level of Binkley Garage (space is limited) located at the corner of Binkley Avenue and Ownby Drive. To park on this level, a current state-issued disabled parking placard and/or license plate are needed. Otherwise, guests may be dropped off on this level and cars are directed to park on the upper levels of Binkley.
Please note that mobility-impaired seating is limited. Guests seated in the mobility-impaired seating area are allowed one attendant to accompany them.
Please contact 214-768-3417 or ceremonies@smu.edu with questions regarding guests with mobility or sensory impairments.
Decorum and Attire
December Commencement is a true milestone in the lives of our candidates, their guests, and the SMU community at large. Excitement, joy, and enthusiasm are expected and welcomed!
We ask, however, that all graduates and guests respect the importance and dignity of this occasion. Please remain seated throughout the ceremony and do not bring items that might disrupt the ceremony. Cell phones and other electronic devices should be silenced. We ask that you express your excitement in ways that will not prevent others from hearing the speakers and enjoying the ceremony.
Guests are encouraged to dress in layers to manage their comfort level throughout the ceremony as the temperature inside Moody Coliseum is generally cool. Men traditionally wear pants and sport coats or suits. Women typically wear dress slacks and blouses or dresses.
Hotels
Click here to see local Dallas Hotels.
Parking and Access
Those attending December Commencement may park in any of the University's parking centers. Laws and regulations that prohibit parking in fire lanes and limit who may use areas reserved for the disabled are strictly enforced.
Where is my Graduate?
Photographs
Personal photographs may be taken before and after the Commencement Convocation ceremony. No one is permitted in the aisles during the ceremony. Arrangements have been made with a professional photographer to take candidates' photographs as they walk across the stage. If you have questions concerning photographs, please contact Flash Photography at 214-443-9393.
Ceremony Livestream
There will be a livestream of December Commencement for guests who are unable to attend the ceremony. Please visit smu.edu/live.