A Night Made for Comets

On a spring evening just before a lunar eclipse entered the night sky, The University of Texas of Dallas shined a bright light on its most recent graduates in a sparkling new Comet tradition that celebrated their academic journeys.

UT Dallas President Richard C. Benson presided over the inaugural All-University Commencement ceremony, which was held May 15, 2022, outdoors at the University Roundabout. Deans of each school also congratulated graduates and recognized their families and friends for their support throughout the years. John Olajide BS’04, CEO and founder of health care technology company Axxess, and co-chair of New Dimensions: The Campaign for UT Dallas, gave the keynote address.

The gala also featured the “Comet Wave,” in which graduates turned on orange, lighted wristbands at the end of the ceremony and waved their caps in the air. The evening ended with fireworks and music as Comets took photos and shared laughs and hugs with supporters.