The Ring Celebration at UTSA is an esteemed tradition where students are presented with their class rings at the beloved Sombrilla on Main Campus. During the celebration, students have the opportunity to receive their rings in the presence of their cherished family and friends, making the occasion even more meaningful and memorable. 

Prior to each Celebration, the rings spend a night in the Alamo—the only college rings in San Antonio to do so. Since 2012, over 10,000 UTSA rings have stayed overnight at the historic building.

The ring symbolizes not only academic accomplishments but also the lasting bond between our students and UTSA, fostering a sense of pride and belonging within the Roadrunner community for the long run.

Note: All eligible UTSA Ring recipients will receive an invitation to the Ring Celebration at least three weeks in advance of the event.

The university seal atop the classically styled ring distinguishes a UTSA graduate from all others. The motto “ Disciplina Praesidium Civitatis ” is the Latin translation of “ A cultivated mind is the guardian genius of democracy ,” a quote by the Republic of Texas president, Mirabeau B. Lamar. The images on the seal symbolize this motto. The shield stands for protection. The open book depicted on the shield signifies higher learning. A star and wreath, adapted from the seal of the State of Texas, complete the seal. The star represents the Republic of Texas, and the wreath depicts an olive branch, a symbol of peace.

One side of the ring features the contemporary architecture of the sombrilla, a landmark of the northwest campus. It is a place for students to congregate and friendships to grow. Rowdy, the UTSA Roadrunner mascot, signifies the spirit and tradition of the university. Native Texas plants – bluebonnets, the state flower, wildflowers and cacti – represent the Southwest.

The other side of the ring pictures the Alamo, San Antonio’s most famous attraction. The words wrapping around the image – “From our hills of oak and cedar to the Alamo” – are the opening of our alma mater. The words represent the growing university; the trees lining the northwest campus and the Alamo representing the downtown location. Images of oak and cedar branches solidify the connection.

Combined, these images create the official UTSA ring, which reflects the prestige of the university and the graduate’s successful fulfillment of the university’s high academic standards.