TWU to hold drive-thru graduation events in December

Oct. 28, 2020—DENTON/DALLAS/HOUSTON—This fall, Texas Woman’s University grads will have a graduation experience worthy of a checkered flag.

In an effort to overcome safety issues associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, the university will hold “drive-thru” graduation ceremonies in December for its 2020 graduates in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and Houston. Students who applied for May, August and December commencement are invited to participate in one of the events, which are scheduled for Dec. 11-13.

Graduates attending the DFW events will mark their graduation milestone by literally crossing the finish line at the Texas Motor Speedway in Fort Worth. In Sugar Land, southwest of Houston, Heavy Construction Systems Specialists (HCSS) will host a similar ceremony on the company’s sprawling grounds. All events will be livestreamed for family and friends unable to attend in person.

Participants will be allowed up to two carloads at each event. As part of the ceremony, 2020 graduates will step out of their vehicles in full regalia, receive their diploma covers, then later pose for photos.

“TWU is pleased to be able to offer these options for our graduates to safely celebrate with family and friends while maintaining the health and safety practices that are so important at this time,” said Carolyn Kapinus, Ph.D., TWU’s executive vice president for academic affairs and provost. “We are fortunate to have Texas Motor Speedway partner with us to give our students a memorable way to graduate. And, we are thankful that long-time TWU supporter Mike Rydin, owner of HCSS, offered use of his business property in honor of his late wife, TWU alumna and occupational therapy faculty member Dr. Sophie Rydin.”

Event times will be announced next month. TWU held virtual ceremonies in May 2020 due to COVID-19 restrictions in place at the time.

For more information about TWU’s graduation-related events, visit twu.edu/commencement-2020.