Texas State celebrates Fall Commencement

Kelly Raaz | December 17, 2018

people holding degrees

Approximately 3,500 candidates for graduation were honored on December 14 and 15 in six commencement ceremonies held at the newly-renovated Strahan Arena at the University Events Center. It was the first time Texas State celebrated commencement in Strahan Arena since it underwent a two-year expansion, which included adding more seats for graduates’ loved ones and family members.

President Denise M. Trauth delivered remarks congratulating candidates on their successes. 

“In your time at Texas State, you have seen this university’s continued transformation as a leader in academic excellence and research on the state and national levels…We are confident that you will be industrious, successful and civic-minded, just as countless other Bobcats have been before you. And we hope that you stay connected to your university, because Texas State alumni are a constant source of pride and strength.

 -- President Trauth, Commencement Fall 2018

Garry Crain, a member of the Texas State University System Board of Regents, delivered the keynote speech at the College of Liberal Arts and Graduate College’s ceremony. Regent Crain received a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Texas State University and a Master of Health Administration from The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center.

Despite the chilly winter weather, graduates continued the tradition of jumping into the San Marcos river after each ceremony. 

strahan arena
The six Fall 2018 commencement ceremonies were the first to take place in the newly-renovated Strahan Arena in the expanded University Events Center. Seating capacity increased to approximately 9,600, an increase from the previous 7,500 seats.
student athletes
Seventeen student-athletes graduated this semester and were honored at the Athletics Ring Ceremony early Friday morning, December 14.
graduate
Fourteen doctoral candidates were in attendance during the six ceremonies.
cain
Garry Crain, member of the Texas State University System Board of Regents, delivered the keynote speech at the College of Liberal Arts and Graduate College's ceremony Friday, Dec. 14.
student athletes
The rings the student-athletes received will serve as a permanent source of Bobcat pride and a reminder of their time at Texas State.
graduate
The fall graduates join the tens of thousands of alumni around the world who have experiences success across all disciplines.
jumping into river
Graduates continued the long-standing tradition of jumping in the San Marcos river at Sewell Park despite the 65-degree weather.

For more information, contact University Communications:

Jayme Blaschke, 512-245-2555

Sandy Pantlik, 512-245-2922