Grads Return for Comet Rite of Passage at In-Person Commencement

The University of Texas at Dallas held 10 commencement ceremonies and a doctoral hooding ceremony on campus Aug. 9-12 to recognize the accomplishments of graduates whose in-person commemorations were put on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Comets who completed bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in 2020 and spring 2021 — all of whom were honored previously in virtual events — were invited to take their well-earned walks across the stage. Additionally, new doctorate recipients from the summer 2021 semester attended a hooding ceremony, joining those who missed out on in-person recognitions in the past year.

Attendees were strongly encouraged to wear masks during the ceremonies, where University leaders addressed the challenges and triumphs the UT Dallas community has experienced during the pandemic. Graduates were also offered the opportunity to defer attending to a future ceremony.

“The University was challenged to adapt over the last year, and the traditional activities that surround the culmination of the academic year were postponed,” said Dr. Inga Musselman, vice president for academic affairs, provost and the Cecil H. Green Distinguished Chair of Academic Leadership. “Similarly, in our personal lives, we faced delays in such rites of passage as starting careers or holding weddings. I have been so eagerly awaiting this day when we would be together again.”

Dr. Richard C. Benson, president of the University and the Eugene McDermott Distinguished University Chair of Leadership, said: “Your achievements during these extraordinary times deserve our admiration. The benefits of your knowledge and expertise are greatly needed now.”