Academic Events

New Student Orientation

During New Student Orientation, you will learn about University life, meet other new students, and have all of your questions about St. Mary's answered. There's no need to feel overwhelmed as a new student—a dedicated and trained staff of Student Orientation Assistants (SOAs) are available to help you learn how to access University services and resources, learn about the Marianist charism and the University's service learning mission, and to learn about fun and meaningful campus traditions. Learn more

Academic Convocation

Academic Convocation introduces new students to the traditions and expectations of our academic community the day before classes begin. This exciting program is an important part of becoming a part of the St. Mary's community. Students have the change to meet and have lunch with faculty from all departments as well as fellow students. Learn more

Baccalaureate Mass

The Baccalaureate Liturgy, a longstanding custom at Catholic universities celebrating commencement exercises, welcomes all faith traditions and allows us, as one, to offer good wishes and a special Marianist farewell to graduating students. Baccalaureate owes its origins to a statute at Oxford University in 1432, and was considered the highlight of the school year. Originally each graduating student delivered a parting message in Latin. In Catholic settings, Baccalaureate is often marked with the celebration of the Eucharist, and the homily is the University's religious "word" to its graduating scholars. Learn more

Commencement

Commencement exercises at St. Mary's are held in May and December and honor those students who have satisfied the requirements for earning an undergraduate, graduate or law degree from the University. Graduating students invite their family and friends to the ceremony, or they share it with loved-ones abroad through online live streaming. Commencement exercises also feature a guest speaker. Past speakers have included award-winning journalist and ABC News' Primetime co-anchor John Quinones (B.A. '74); former U.S. ambassador to the United Kingdom Henry E. Catto Jr.; and Pennsylvania's Attorney General Tom Corbett (J.D. '75). Learn more

Red Mass

A longstanding tradition in the School of Law, Red Mass dates back to 1245 in Europe when both the bench and bar attended the mass together at the beginning of each judicial session. The name is derived from the scarlet robes worn by judges and red vestments worn by priests in honor of the Holy Spirit. Red Mass is celebrated throughout the country for the purpose of requesting God's blessings and guidance on the administration of justice. The tradition was revived in San Antonio by St. Mary's University School of Law and the Catholic Lawyers Guild of San Antonio, who organize the annual event with representatives from San Antonio legal organizations, the judiciary and the State Legislature. The legal community as well as people of all faiths are invited to the annual mass at the beginning of each judicial year. Learn more