I am proud to be a part of this celebration of our graduates' accomplishments. Graduates have attained a high quality education from a demanding institution of higher education -- their success is our success. Each graduate is a living embodiment of a successful academic career, possessing the knowledge and skills to begin the next phase of his or her career. We -- the faculty and staff -- appreciate the opportunity to celebrate with them and the people important to them.

Our ceremonies are crafted to blend personal recognition with community recognition of each graduate. Plan now to attend both the university celebration at the Academic Convocation on Friday, May 22, 2009, and your graduate's college commencement ceremony Friday or Saturday, May 23, 2009.

What each graduate has accomplished is momentous and we look forward to sharing this opportunity to recognize and applaud their accomplishments with you during Commencement Weekend 2009.

Katherine J. Mayberry, Ph.D.
Vice President for Academic Affairs