(Dec. 15, 2017) — When nearly 2,600 UTSA graduates cross the stage at Commencement this Sunday, they’ll all be dressed in the same navy blue regalia. As the ceremony starts, their creative caps will help their families and friends find them in the crowd.
Decorating mortarboards has become a popular tradition among many Roadrunners. It’s a way for graduates to share a special sentiment or give thanks to their parents, professors and supporters for helping them stay the course and earn their degrees.
Earlier this month, about 60 UTSA graduates came together for a cap decorating party at the Rowdy Campus Store on the UTSA Main Campus. They used flowers, shimmery paper, gems, letter stickers and paint to make their caps unique.
Undergraduate Nathalie Montes is among those who were at the decorating party.
“Mine is going to say, ‘thanks mom,’ because she’s my inspiration for going to college,” said Montes. “I’m getting my environmental science degree so I wanted to incorporate that by adding flowers.”
Priscilla Muniz is a first-generation student from San Antonio earning a business degree in finance.
“My parents are the influence for my mortarboard,” said Muniz. “They weren’t able to go to college, but they motivated me to pursue my degree. It will say, ‘Let the journey begin.’”
Mortarboards offer graduates a way to share their personalities. Students have incorporated Harry Potter references, Selena lyrics and their favorite movies, sports teams or Bible verses. Over the years, UTSA students have even added power to their mortarboards, with flashing lights and digital messages.
UTSA will honor nearly 2,600 graduates at two ceremonies Sunday at the Alamodome. The first Commencement ceremony begins at 10 a.m. and honors graduates from the College of Business, College of Engineering, the College of Public Policy and College of Sciences. U.S. Representative Joaquin Castro will deliver the keynote address.
Students who are earning a degree from the College of Architecture, Construction and Planning, College of Liberal and Fine Arts, College of Education and Human Development and University College will cross the stage beginning at 4 p.m. San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg will address graduates in the second ceremony.
Fall 2017 graduates are advised to arrive two hours prior to their ceremony for check-in, located on the ground level of the Alamodome. Family and friends are also encouraged to attend. The Alamodome has a new clear bag policy. Graduates and guests can find all the details on this policy including a list of the approved bags on the Alamodome website. All Roadrunners and their families and friends can share their Commencement experience on social media using #UTSA and #UTSAgrad17.
