The University of Texas at Austin Tower will shine burnt orange April 29 to honor the Class of 2016 as they celebrate the Spring Class Ring Ceremony with Texas Exes.

The official University of Texas ring is a time-honored tradition that links students with their UT experience. It is an emblem of academic achievement that designates the wearer as a proud Texas Ex.

Each year, thousands of new students attend “ring ceremonies” hosted by the Texas Exes to receive their ring. Held prior to Commencement, qualifying junior and seniors are presented with their rings by a senior university official. It is an important rite of passage as students work toward the completion of their degrees.

The ring is reserved exclusively for graduates and students who have completed 75 credit hours. It forms a common bond between Texas Ex of all generations, serving as a proud reminder of Longhorn roots.

When the Texas Exes asked students to help design the ring, it was the shared images all Longhorns associate with their time here that they wanted to see: the symbol of the Texas Exes, the Silhouette Longhorn, the Tower, and the phrase that touches the hearts of alumni all over the world, “The Eyes of Texas Are Upon You.”

Learn more about the history of the UT Austin class ring.

UPDATE: Because Friday’s forecast calls for a 100 percent chance of rain and possibly severe thunderstorms, the ring ceremony has been moved to the Etter-Harbin Alumni Center. While we’re disappointed the ceremony will not be in front of the UT Tower, the weather won’t put a damper on this momentous celebration. Learn more about the ceremony.