The class of 2004 commencement weekend will provide the expected array of concerts and events that mark each year’s end at Lawrence. In addition to those events especially for graduating seniors, their parents, and invited guests, the commencement calendar includes a number of events open to everyone.The Commencement Concert, which features members of the graduating class, will take place at 8 p.m. in Harper Hall on Friday, June 11. Also on Friday is an informal party for seniors at 10 p.m. in the Memorial Union.
Assistant Director of Admissions Andrea Powers encourages everyone still in the area at 11 a.m. on Saturday to attend the Baccalaureate Service, a “reflective, somewhat spiritual” event that brings a “calming moment” to the busy weekend. The service is nondenominational and will include music, singing of hymns, and readings by class officers. Alumni Dan Taylor will give a speech entitled “Making Connections.” Following the Baccalaureate Service is a picnic and performance by the Lawrence Wind Ensemble. Seniors, parents, faculty members, and guests are invited. The President’s Reception for seniors and their families will take place from 2-4 p.m.
That night, the Class of 2004 party will be held in the Buchanan Kiewit Recreation Center from 9 p.m. until midnight. There will be a cash bar this year, but hors d’ oeuvres are still free.
Commencement exercises will begin at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday. Andrea Hendrickson has been selected as the class spokesperson. Powers describes the speech as one of the most well-written she has seen, as well as being touching and funny. The ceremony will also include short speeches by those receiving honorary degrees.
Commencement is scheduled to take place on Main Hall Green, but in the event of rain the ceremony will be held in the Memorial Chapel and tickets will be required. A live telecast will be available in Stansbury Theatre.