Master of Business Administration
McCombs School of Business
The University of Texas at Austin
Three events across the weekend celebrate Ariel's achievement. Attend one, two, or all three — each offers something different.
A suggested plan to make the most of Ariel's celebration weekend in Austin.
The Friday evening reception is invite-only and requires an RSVP. Cameroonian food, drinks, music, and a chance to celebrate together after the ceremony.
Friday May 8 · 7:30 – 9:00 PM
Featuring Cameroonian food, beer & wine, signature punch, and non-alcoholic options. A short, warm celebration with the people who've been part of this journey. Address shared once you've RSVP'd.
Can't make it? You can still leave a note on the Partiful page — would mean a lot.
Other events don't require an RSVP here: the Thursday McCombs Family Celebration is reserved separately through McCombs (close family only), and the Friday MBA Convocation and Saturday UT-wide ceremonies are open to all guests with no tickets required (Ariel handles his own graduate ticket for DKR).
Hotels fill fast during graduation weekend — book as early as possible. All options are near the UT campus.
Everything you need to know to make the trip smooth and memorable.
Flash Photography will have professionals at all ceremonies. Photos can be ordered after commencement weekend. The UT Tower and campus also make stunning backdrop spots for your own photos!
Business attire is appropriate for guests at the MBA Convocation. May in Austin is warm (mid-80s°F) — light layers and comfortable shoes are key, especially for walking campus.
Fly into Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS), about 8 miles from campus. Rideshares (Uber/Lyft) are widely available. Downtown hotels are an easy drive from the airport.
Expect warm and sunny weather — highs around 82–88°F. Afternoon storms are possible. For the outdoor stadium ceremony on May 9, bring sunscreen and a light jacket for the evening chill.
ADA entrances are available at all ceremony venues. At Gregory Gym, the ADA entrance is just before the main staircase. Contact McCombs directly for specific accommodation needs.
No backpacks, purses, or coats. There is no secure storage at the venue — leave bags at the hotel. Keep essentials (phone, keys, ID) in pockets or a small wristband pouch. Ariel will carry his regalia in, not wear it through entry.
Both ceremonies are livestreamed. The MBA Convocation streams to Crum Auditorium at Rowling Hall (great overflow for larger family groups) and online via McCombs. The UT-wide ceremony streams from the UT Commencement website and Longhorn Network. No guilt about skipping the heat!
The Friday 7:30 PM reception is invite-only and requires an RSVP via Partiful. Cameroonian food, drinks, and music — a short, warm gathering after the ceremony. Address shared once you're confirmed.
Make a trip out of it! Austin has incredible food, culture, music, and outdoor life beyond the ceremonies.