Southern Arkansas University Sets Commencement Dates

This year graduates at Southern Arkansas University are set to walk the stage and receive their diplomas after accomplishing their achievements this past May. SAU announced that it will hold Summer Commencement ceremonies at Wilkins Stadium on August 7 and August 8 with some special considerations for gathering.

The time schedules for each college will be as follows:

Friday, August 7, 2020

8:30 a.m. College of Liberal Performing Arts

11 a.m. College of Education

7:30 p.m. School of Graduate Studies

Saturday, August 8, 2020

8:30 a.m. College of Science and Engineering

7:30 p.m. College of Business

A commencement and pinning ceremony for graduates of the Department of Nursing will be held at Story Arena at 11 a.m. on Saturday, August 8.

As SAU will follow guidelines issued by the CDC and the Arkansas Department of Health, every attendee over the age of 10 will be required to wear face coverings, and social distancing procedures will be observed. Seating areas will be marked for use, and extensive cleaning procedures will be observed between ceremonies.

Following state COVID-19 guidelines for the attendee limit, a ticket will be required for entry.

Each graduate can receive a maximum of eight tickets with individual seating information denoted on each ticket. Further information for graduates will be provided by the Office of the Registrar.

“We are excited to bring our graduates back to campus for these Commencement ceremonies,” said Dr. Trey Berry, president of SAU. “Having commencement in Wilkins Stadium will provide a safe and healthy environment for families and students as we celebrate their achievements.”

Caps and gowns will arrive on or around July 27, and graduates may pick them up at the SAU Bookstore. Prior to each ceremony, they may be picked up at the track under the SAU tent.

In case of inclement weather, all ceremonies will be moved to Story Arena.