College of Education Commencement to be held June 23 at 10:00 a.m.
A message from President Rebecca L. Sherrick
7 May 2012
When we began yesterday morning's Aurora University graduate commencement ceremony, we were relatively confident that the proceedings would conclude in time to avoid bad weather. The weather we experienced was caused by a “pop up thunderstorm” that materialized suddenly. Such storms are capable of causing significant damage and may even result in fatalities.
Our Campus Public Safety department monitored the situation closely throughout the ceremony and was forced finally to recommend an evacuation of the tent. Their concern was safety. Fortunately no one was injured and most reached cover before the rain became heavy. For this we are grateful. I am sorry, however, that some were confused by the use of the word “suspended” in the stage announcement.
AU approached the weekend with detailed contingency plans in place. None of our facilities are large enough to accommodate thousands of guests. We opt for the tent instead, because it allows us to provide a larger number of tickets to graduates. In many weather circumstances, the tent provides appropriate shelter. But it is not adequate protection from a lightning strike or heavy winds.
We do recognize, however, that commencement is a very important day for our students and their families. I am writing to announce that we will hold a ceremony for advanced degree recipients in the College of Education on Saturday 23 June 2012 at 10:00 a.m. in Crimi Auditorium in the Institute for Collaboration building. Seating will be more limited for this event, but a live video stream will be provided online.
Soon you will receive information about the alternative ceremony. You will be asked to select one of two options:
- You
may choose to participate in the 23 June 2012 ceremony, where you will receive
your diploma in its cover
OR - You may decline to participate and request that the diploma and cover be mailed to you no later than 23 June 2012.
Professional photographers will be in attendance at the ceremony on the 23rd of June. A reception will follow.
Please continue to monitor the AU website for additional information. We cannot control the weather, but promise a festive ceremony in the place of the one that was suspended yesterday. Thank you for your consideration.
Photos: AU Commencement Ceremonies, May 6, 2012
Video: AU Undergraduate Commencement Ceremony, May 6, 2012
Video: AU Graduate Commencement Ceremony, May 6, 2012
Video of the GWC Commencement Ceremony is available on the GWC website.
View photos from the AU Commencement ceremonies.
