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May 14, 2005
Commencement
I know you think I probably say this every semester (we have a commencement both in December and May), but this really was one of the best Commencements! The speaker was great, the set up of the new McKenna Recreation Center was nearly perfect, and Eric didn't knock over any diplomas. ;)
Senior President Emily's farewell to the university was memorable and superb. Jennifer told President Boyle she would miss her. Kristen cried. David almost shook the diploma right out of Eric's hand. And Steven was beaming from ear to ear.
We had our usual receiving line where the faculty and staff get to shake the hands of all the graduates. It's a special tradition updated by being held on the patio of the McKenna Center. Debra came through the receiving line with a beautiful bouquet of flowers. Nakia had on her very comfy flip flops. Matt came through with a grin and a firm hand shake.
Speaking of, I think this year's class had the strongest hand shakes. I'm always appalled by wimpy hand shakes, but this class knew what it was doing!
After the receiving line, we all headed to Lowe Dining Hall for cookies and lemonade. Next week starts summer classes!
Posted by MaryKayCooper at May 14, 2005 6:11 PM
Comments
The best moment for me was when Peggy noticed that the doors leading back into the rec center were locked. As the graduates were coming down the receiving line, and then curving around the back patio, everyone realized they were all heading for a huge traffic jam.
"Hug them and kiss them! SLow then down!" Peggy shouted, while she got on her cell phone and called someone to come open the doors.
All worked out in the end, but for a minute there it looked like we were headed for chaos.
Yes, my hand hurts from all the handshakes. Oh, and Mary Kay, your disco-ball shirt was very memorable.
Last year, there were fewer cookies and more sweets. I like cookies fine, but somehow I wanted more chocolates and tortes and stuff like that.
Comment by: Dennis G. Jerz at May 14, 2005 8:30 PM