Students, New Alumni Become Latest to Join Circle at Ring Ceremony

Before a crowd of cheering family and friends, nearly 60 students donned their new UT Dallas class rings at a recent ceremony. During emotional speeches, students thanked friends, family and University faculty and staff. 

“I’d like to thank all my professors,” said Curtlyn Kramer, a public affairs senior. “Knowledge is power, and now I’m powerful.” 

Adopted by the former Alumni Association in 2001, the ring serves as a tangible reminder of the bond between alumni and the university that shaped their futures. The next Ring Ceremony will be held on May 13.

“UT Dallas has provided me with an eclectic and intellectually stimulating environment,” said Nemorio Carbajal, a management information systems senior. “I’ve really enjoyed my time here.”

The ring ceremony has evolved into a rite of passage for many Comets. When weather permits, the ceremony includes a ceremonial dunking of rings in the reflecting pool on the University mall. 

“Just like these rings go through so much polishing, we’re all polished by our UT Dallas professors and the work we’ve done,” said Amanda Habib, a psychology senior. 

The UT Dallas ring features the letters “UTD” on the top, which identifies the wearer as a graduate. One side emphasizes the University’s Texas heritage, displaying the state flag matched with a lone star and crossed by the UT Dallas Comet. The degree received is also designated. The other side includes the seal of The University of Texas System, the year of UT Dallas’ founding, 1969, and the year of the wearer’s graduation.

In addition to all UT Dallas graduates, undergraduate students with at least 75 credit hours and graduate students with at least 15 credit hours are eligible to purchase rings.

Watch how the ring is made here. See more photos of the ceremony here. For more information about the UT Dallas ring, click here.