2021 Commencement info

When is commencement?

Commencement is scheduled for Friday, May 21, 2021, at 11 a.m.

Where is commencement being held?

The college will hold its 2021 commencement ceremony at the Curtis Culwell Center. The 190,000 square feet state-of-the-art multi-purpose facility is located at 4999 Naaman Forest Blvd, Garland, TX 75040, near the George Bush Turnpike between North Garland Avenue and Brand Road, adjacent to Naaman Forest High School and the Gilbreath-Reed Career and Technical Center.

Are tickets required to attend commencement?

Yes. Tickets will be distributed to graduates at designated times prior to May 21 and are required for entry for all guests ages 2 and up.

How early may guests arrive?

Guest may begin arriving at 10 a.m.

Are face coverings required?

Face coverings are not mandated, but are permissible.

Where do I park?

Parking is available at the Curtis Culwell Center. Parking is $10. Parking is cashless, and tickets can be purchased online prior to the ceremony. VIP parking is available online in advance only. Tickets will be scanned upon entry. Credit card service is available on the day of the ceremony. Purchase tickets for parking here.

Who is receiving special awards and honors?

The name of graduates who have received special awards and honors will be posted here on graduation day.

May I order a DVD of commencement?

Yes, a copy of the graduation ceremony as it is seen on the jumbotron is available on DVD and will be mailed to the address provided. Please allow 2-6 weeks for delivery. Order DVDs here.

May I order photos taken during the ceremony?

Commencement photos will be made available to students one to two weeks after commencement. A link to the photo gallery will be posted on the commencement site to allow students an opportunity to download images. There is no fee for the images.

Will the ceremony be livestreamed?

The commencement ceremony will be livestreamed. You must create an account to view the livestreamed ceremony. There are several steps involved, so don’t wait to the last minute to sign up.

Are purses and bags allowed in the Culwell Center?

To ensure guest safety and a quicker entry into the facility, the Culwell Center has implemented a bag policy limiting the size and type of bags allowed at all events. While the center encourages guests not to bring bags if possible, the following bags are permissible:

• Clear plastic, vinyl or PVC bags that do not exceed 12” x 6” x 12”
• One-gallon clear plastic Ziploc-style bags
• Clutch bags approximately the size of a hand
• Medically necessary items

Are food and beverages permitted inside facility?

No outside food or beverages are allowed inside the center.

Are there any photography or videography restrictions?

No video cameras or cameras with lenses longer than 6” are allowed in the center. The college will have photographers on site. A link to download photos at no charge will be sent to the graduate’s email address following the commencement ceremony.