The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, is set to celebrate its highest number of graduates this spring. From May 14 to 17, approximately 9,000 students will transition from academic life to alumni, participating in ten commencement ceremonies.
Record Graduation Numbers at UT Knoxville
This milestone includes recipients of undergraduate and graduate degrees, as well as certificates. The university will also recognize summer graduation applicants during this period.
Provost and Senior Vice Chancellor John Zomchick expressed pride in this achievement. “Commencement provides the entire Volunteer family the opportunity to celebrate our graduates and recognize the families, friends, faculty, and mentors who supported them on this journey,” he stated.
Ceremony Details
- Undergraduate Ceremonies: Organized by college.
- Graduate Ceremonies: A separate ceremony for master’s degrees and another for doctorates.
- Location: Most events will occur at the Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center.
- Live Streaming: All ceremonies will be webcast for those unable to attend.
On May 15, an additional significance will be marked with the commissioning of 50 Army ROTC cadets and 15 Air Force ROTC cadets as second lieutenants in the U.S. armed forces. Both ceremonies will take place on the same day:
- Army ROTC: 9 a.m. at the Alumni Memorial Building’s James R. Cox Auditorium.
- Air Force ROTC: 10 a.m. in Student Union, Room 272C.
Parking and Security Information
Graduates and their guests can utilize free parking in designated student areas. However, staff parking zones should be avoided during the ceremonies.
Free shuttle service will operate from Garage B at the Knoxville Civic Coliseum from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday. On Saturday, the G5 garage and various staff lots will also be accessible. The G10 garage next to the arena will be available throughout the commencement period, with the top level specifically reserved for accessible parking. Guests must enter and exit from Neyland Drive.
The university enforces a clear bag policy. Event security will screen all attendees upon entry. While binoculars, cameras, and video cameras are permitted, smoking and vaping are prohibited on all university property.
For more information regarding security policies, permitted items, and detailed ceremony schedules, visit the commencement website dedicated to this significant event.
