Commencement may center around the graduates but making it all happen takes a village. Teams across campus worked together to create a welcoming, connected, and safe experience for thousands of students, families, and guests. Here’s how a few key groups from Operations, Finance & Support made it look effortless.
Facilities: Setting the Stage
In the month leading up to Commencement, Facilities teams were hard at work preparing the campus to shine. They pressure-washed public spaces, restriped campus roads, and installed key setup elements like rope stanchions, flag stands, and the diploma cabinet. Crews were on standby during the events to handle any last-minute electrical or HVAC needs.
The newly renovated Academic Quad served as a stunning backdrop for celebrations. Facilities oversaw the planting of beds, adding new trees, and refurbishing the turf areas—making grading and drainage improvements to keep everything lush and level. Light tree maintenance and fresh landscaping gave the space an extra polish just in time for photo ops and processions.
OIT: Powering Every Stream and Screen
Rice’s Office of Information Technology played a critical behind-the-scenes role, supporting livestreams, digital displays, and connectivity across campus. They partnered with Public Affairs to stream key moments—like the Sallyport processional—and worked with event staff to ensure every name and image appeared on-screen without a glitch. With boosted Wi-Fi, stable communications, and quick problem-solving, OIT helped Commencement shine on every screen.
RUPD: Keeping Ceremonies Safe and Seamless
The Rice University Police Department was on duty throughout all four ceremonies—Undergraduate, Master’s, Jones School, and Doctoral. From leading processions and managing traffic flow to providing a visible presence at entry points and across the stadium, RUPD ensured events moved smoothly and safely.
H&D: Fueling the Festivities
Housing & Dining helped keep the campus hydrated and fed all weekend. The team coordinated hydration efforts, placing over 1,800 water bottles in the stadium and setting up water stations around campus. All serveries hosted graduation receptions following the ceremony, and Cohen House provided beverage service for private parties for Jones graduates at Alice Pratt Brown.
From safety and tech to food and logistics, Commencement weekend brought out the best in Rice’s OF&S teams. Thanks to the planning, coordination, and care of so many, the university celebrated its newest graduates with pride.
