Commencement marks passage of the Class of 2005

The cap and gown clad Class of 2004 participates in Commencement exercises.

CC is gearing up for its 87th Commencement exercises this weekend and College staff is in all-hands-on-deck mode to guarantee the event runs smoothly.

“We are working on everything, including the weather, to ensure our students and their guests have a memorable experience,” said Ron Wassel, the College’s director of events.

The College expects more than 4,600 guests to attend this year’s ceremony honoring the Class of 2005. It is scheduled to be held outdoors on the College green. The Commencement address will be given by actress Estelle Parsons ’49.

In keeping with CC tradition, seniors will process through a “laurel chain” — a pathway lined on both sides by junior-class women dressed in white and holding chains of laurel. Each graduate will receive a pine sapling representing the tree on the College seal.

The full event schedule includes a number of programs for students, parents and friends of the College. The athletic awards banquet and certificate ceremonies for the College’s four interdisciplinary centers will take place Saturday, May 21 throughout the afternoon followed by Baccalaureate at 4 p.m. Seniors and parents are encouraged to attend a celebration reception for graduates at 9 p.m.

On Sunday, brunch will be served on the College green for all guests at 10:30 a.m. The Commencement processional is slated to begin at 12:35 p.m.

In the event of inclement weather, brunch will be moved to Harris Refectory and the Commencement ceremony will be moved indoors to Palmer Auditorium, where seating is limited to two admission tickets per student.

“The remaining guests can view the ceremony on closed-circuit TV throughout the campus,” Wassel said.

Wassel also has two extra notes of advice for those who plan to attend.

“Be patient, there is parking for everyone,” he said. “This is designed to be a wonderful day of passage for you and your student. Enjoy it!”

Visit the Commencement Web site for more details on the event and what to do in case of rain.