As of March 3, 2003, the last count of graduates is 676. This means that close to 700 names will be read honoring undergrads, masters, and doctors of chiropractic and naturopathic. There are some changes to commencement since last year, and seniors need to be aware of what to expect.First of all, Commencement is on Saturday, May 10, 2003, not on the traditional Mother’s Day Sunday. Guests do not need tickets, however, they should be prepared for some very tight security at the Arena at Harbor Yard.
Seniors will receive a packet in the mail informing them of the details for May 10. Some students will be invited to an Honors Convocation at the Mertens Theatre in the ABC Building on May 9, 2003 at 1:30 pm. Here, cords of honor will be given out for students to wear the next day at commencement.
Seniors will need to contact Special Events, either by phone, in person, or by email to receive their ticket. Graduates will not be allowed into the Arena if they do not have this ticket which will contain important information including their school, degree, section, and seat.
There will be more room this year at the reception immediately following commencement. If the weather permits, the reception will be set up outside the Arena’s concourse. Shuttles will run from the back of the Student Center to the Arena starting at 8:15 am. Parking is provided free of charge in the Student Center Parking lot and there is a $2 charge if parking at the Arena.
Graduates will receive ten announcements to give to their friends and family members, inviting them to the University of Bridgeport 2003 Commencement. Graduates should also advise their invites to bring a sweater, because like last year, seating will be held over the ice.
This year’s guest speaker will be Jerry Penacoli, an alum from the Class of 1978, who graduated in Journalism and Theatre, and can be seen on television from time to time. Organizers of this year’s commencement are eager about Penacoli. They say he should be very entertaining to the students.
A professional photographer has been hired to take pictures of each graduate after he/she has received her diploma. Commencement is usually videotaped, but more for the use of the school only. There will be a discussion among the committee whether to mass produce this videotape and allow students and their parents to purchase a tape. As of now, relatives are allowed to bring their own video camera.
The next meeting to discuss plans for commencement will be held Wednesday, April 9, 2003 at 11 am in the Private Dining Room. All seniors are welcome.