The University of Arkansas at Little Rock is getting back to tradition with the university’s first in-person commencement ceremony since the COVID-19 pandemic began. 

The commencement ceremony for summer and fall 2021 graduates will begin at 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 18, in the Jack Stephens Center. UA Little Rock will celebrate the graduation of about 500 students.

“We are delighted to resume our traditional commencement ceremony at UA Little Rock and to celebrate the accomplishments of our students with faculty, staff, families, and friends,” said Provost Ann Bain. “The COVID-19 pandemic has created additional challenges for our students to complete their degrees and certificate programs. This will be a particularly special commencement ceremony for all of us.” 

UA Little Rock will continue to follow guidelines recommended by the Arkansas Department of Health. Facemasks will be required, and hand sanitizing stations will be available for all guests. 

Back by popular demand will be celebratory photo backdrops created by Just Peachy. UA Little Rock will also hold contests for the best-decorated graduation cap.

Graduates can get ready for commencement at Gradfest, a one-stop shop for all things graduation. The event is scheduled from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 13, and Thursday, Oct. 14, in the Donaghey Student Center Campus Bookstore. Grads can get information on graduation applications, graduate school, and commencement, purchase cap and gowns, and order UA Little Rock class rings and graduation announcements.

Any student who wishes to participate in the commencement ceremony should apply for graduation by Oct. 22. Instructions for applying for graduation can be found at this link. 

If you have any questions about the Fall 2021 Commencement Ceremony, please contact Dr. Erin Finzer, associate vice chancellor for academic affairs, at esfinzer@ualr.edu.