Crossing the finish line COVID-19 forced the university to scratch plans for an in-person graduation ceremony in Spring 2020, paving the way for a one-of-a-kind graduation celebration in December. All graduates in 2020 were invited to take a victory lap at Fort Worth’s Texas Motor Speedway as part of the university’s two-day drive-thru commencement ceremonies. At the finish line, graduates exited their cars and crossed the racetrack’s checkered stripe while hoisting their diploma covers. It was an exhilarating experience for nearly 1,300 pandemic-weary graduates and their families who participated in the event. Another drive-thru event was held in Houston at Heavy Construction Systems Specialists. 12
