Growth at VSU causes commencement ceremony to expand

With the steady increase in enrollment at Valdosta State University the need to expand commencement is evident. An average of 950 students apply for graduation each fall and spring semester. Beginning spring semester 2007, commencement will be extended to six ceremonies within two days to accommodate the growing number of graduates and visitors who want to attend.

“The change from two to six ceremonies was made after lengthy discussions with students, faculty and staff,” said Ronald M. Zaccari, VSU President. “As the number of graduates and guests continues to grow it is becoming difficult to provide adequate accommodations and more importantly a ceremony that exemplifies the dignity and honor this achievement deserves.”

Three ceremonies will be held on Friday, May 4, 2007, beginning with College of Nursing at 2 p.m., in Whitehead Auditorium; Masters of Library Science at 4 p.m., in Odum Library Auditorium; and Division of Social Work at 7 p.m., in the Whitehead Auditorium.

On Saturday, May 5, 2007 all three ceremonies will be held in the P.E. Complex, beginning with the Dewar College of Education and U.S. Air Force ROTC at 10 a.m.; College of the Arts and Harley Langdale Jr. College of Business Administration at 1 p.m.; and College of Arts and Sciences at 4 p.m.

“Commencement is a very special event, not only for the graduates, but their families and friends who want to witness this momentous occasion,” Zaccari said. “We want to offer a ceremony that is meaningful and truly recognizes the sacrifices, challenges, and accomplishments of each graduate.”

For more information, contact Ann Lacey, director of Special Events and staff coordinator for Commencement, at 229-333-7446 or on the Web at http://www.valdosta.edu/specialevents/commencement/spring_07/ .