Scenes from Texas State commencement

The sight of Texas State graduates jumping into the San Marcos River is a familiar one, and the tradition is long and loved. Some, including Lindsey Smith, chose to simply dip their toes instead — something the chilly weather might have influenced. Daily Record photos by Denise Cathey

University President Denise Trauth shakes hands with master’s candidate Marco Lozano as she confers his degree.

Graduates of Texas State University’s College of Education proceed into Strahan Coliseum’s stadium floor during the first Commencement of the fall on Friday morning.

Texas State University President Denise Trauth reaches out to shake graduate Anayka Cantu’s hand as she presents her with her degree holder during the conferring of degrees for bachelor’s candidates.

Lilian Kimani gives her brother Frederick a quick hug as he walks back to his seat after receiving his degree.

Texas State University President Denise Trauth and College of Education Dean Dr. Michael P. O’Malley look on as doctoral candidate Andrew M. Baker is hooded by his research professor Dr. Patricia L. Guerra and Graduate College Dean Andrea Golato.

After the commencement comes the long-held tradition of graduates taking the plunge into the San Marcos River as a commemoration of student’s hard work in achieving their degrees. Undeterred by the icy chill of the winter weather, Deshaun Sellers takes a flying leap backwards off the concrete bank into the river as his family and friends watch.

The first jumper of the day, Justin Connelley, quickly uses a towel to dry off his face and hair after his dunking in the river.