Taylor Sheridan to Keynote UT Austin Commencement Ceremony

Austin, Texas –

The University of Texas at Austin has announced that Taylor Sheridan, the acclaimed creator of the popular “Yellowstone” series and its spin-offs “1883” and “1923,” will serve as the keynote speaker for its commencement ceremony. This significant event is scheduled for Saturday, May 10, at 7 p.m. at the iconic Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium.

Interim President Jim Davis expressed high regard for Sheridan, labeling him a “visionary storyteller” and praising his connections to Texas and values that resonate deeply with the university’s ethos. Over 50,000 attendees are expected to celebrate the graduation of the Class of 2025 during this ceremony, which will include student performances and impressive drone displays.

Guest Attendance and Ticketing

Guests who wish to attend the university-wide ceremony will not need to purchase tickets, although graduates are required to register in advance and secure a ticket via email. These tickets will facilitate graduate seating on the field during the event. The ceremony is projected to last approximately 90 minutes, concluding with a traditional fireworks display to mark the occasion.

Parking and Accessibility

To accommodate the large number of attendees, special free parking areas will be available on the campus. All parking garages will include ADA-accessible spaces for those with valid placards or license plates, ensuring access for everyone attending the event.

Insights from Taylor Sheridan

As part of his engagement with UT Austin, Sheridan has shared valuable insights with graduates about the importance of resilience, encouraging them to embrace rejection as a catalyst for motivation. He humorously recounted his own experience of being rejected from UT Austin, largely due to his GPA and SAT scores, before attending Texas State University, where he did not complete his degree.

Honorary Degree and Career Highlights

In addition to his keynote address at UT Austin’s commencement, Sheridan will also be receiving an honorary degree from Texas Christian University (TCU) over the same weekend. He is renowned for his extensive contributions to the film and television industry in Texas, advocating for improved tax incentives to bolster the state’s film sector. His resume includes notable works like “Tulsa King,” “Mayor of Kingstown,” and an adaptation of S.C. Gwynne’s “Empire of the Summer Moon.”

Background of the Ceremony

UT Austin’s commencement ceremonies are a key tradition in the university community, celebrating the hard work and achievements of its graduates. This year’s event echoes previous celebrations, where guest speakers provide motivation and insight, while graduates and their families celebrate this momentous occasion. The involvement of a prominent figure like Sheridan highlights the university’s commitment to honoring notable individuals connected to its values and legacy.

The commencement ceremony not only serves as a milestone for graduates but also fosters a sense of community among attendees, including family, friends, faculty, and staff, who come together to recognize the accomplishments of the Class of 2025. As graduates step into the next phase of their lives, the words of a successful storyteller like Sheridan are sure to resonate as they embark on their future journeys.