SMU Rotunda Passage
The tradition of the Rotunda Passage is made up of two events – Rotunda Processional and Rotunda Recessional – that symbolize students’ formal introduction and completion of their SMU journey.
Rotunda Processional
This first part of this symbolic tradition takes begins before Convocation prior to their first day of class.
Each year, we ask alumni family members and SMU faculty and staff who are parents of incoming students to serve as alumni marshals or faculty and staff parent marshals during Rotunda Processional.
Details about SMU academic ceremonies.Rotunda Recessional
The second part of this tradition takes place after Baccalaureate during Commencement Weekend.
Similarly, we ask alumni family members and SMU faculty and staff who are parents of graduating seniors to serve as alumni marshals or faculty and staff parent marshals during the Rotunda Recessional.
Sign up today to be part of this special celebration. Please register by May 3, 2024 by completing the sign up form below, and contact Amy Thompson at amythompson@smu.edu with any questions.
Schedule of Events
Friday, May 10:
| 3:30 p.m. | Check-in, robing of alumni parents and reception inside Dallas Hall. |
| 4:15 p.m. | Official welcome and parent/student legacy photo. |
| 4:25 p.m. | Students are excused for Baccalaureate seating. |
| 4:45 p.m. | Parent Marshals are escorted to McFarlin Auditorium |
| 5:00 p.m. | Baccalaureate begins. |
| 5:50 p.m. | Parent Marshals exit McFarlin Auditorium for Rotunda Recessional. |
| 6:00 p.m. | Rotunda Recessional begins. |
| 6:15 pm. | Recessional concludes. |