U of A Expects Another Record-Breaking Class at Fall Commencement

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The University of Arkansas expects to celebrate another record-breaking fall graduating class during its fall commencement ceremony at 9 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 21, in Bud Walton Arena.

A total of 2,090 students applied to graduate for the fall ceremony, a 5 percent increase over 2018. The class is highlighted by 1,420 undergraduate students — a 3 percent increase over last year — and 656 graduate students, a 10 percent increase year-over-year. Graduates during fall commencement include students who met graduation requirements during the summer and fall semesters.

Chancellor Joseph Steinmetz will deliver the commencement address.  

GUEST INFORMATION

Doors open at 7:30 a.m. for the Fall Commencement ceremony, and all guests should be seated by 8:45 a.m. Attendees will be required to enter through the south entrance of Bud Walton Arena. The ceremony also will be streamed live for those who can't attend.

Free parking is available in the lots closest to Bud Walton Arena: lots 46, 47N, 47S, 56 and 74A, B, C and E; and in any other unrestricted parking lot on campus.

Tickets are not required, but bags will be checked for security purposes. Compact umbrellas are allowed, but balloons, wrapped packages, and strollers are not allowed in Bud Walton Arena. A full list of prohibited items is available online.

Handicapped parking is available in lot 60 or be dropped off at the south entrance of Bud Walton Arena, and handicapped seating is available on the concourse level.

STUDENT INFORMATION

Check-in for students is from 7:30-8:00 a.m. at the west entrance of Bud Walton Arena.

The University of Arkansas now offers updated information on graduation and commencement through a free smartphone app, which can be downloaded from Google for android phones or Apple for iPhones.

Here are a few helpful tips for graduating students:

• DO wear comfortable shoes.
• DON'T forget your regalia: wear your gown, cap, tassel, cords, stoles and hood when you arrive.
• DO arrive early.
• DON'T bring personal items - leave them with your guests.
• DO wear something with pockets under your gown for small items, like phones and keys.
• DO silence your phone.
• DON'T forget to take a bathroom break before the three-hour ceremony.
• DO make plans to meet your guests and family after the ceremony.
• DO have a great time.

Additional information is available on the registrar's website.