Midwinter commencement at IUB

By DeAnna Hines

For the first time since Dec. 17, 1944, Indiana University will conduct a formal midwinter commencement ceremony on the Bloomington campus.

The Dec. 21 ceremony will begin at 2:30 p.m. in Assembly Hall, replacing the reception that has been held for winter graduates in recent years.

"The number of winter graduates is increasing," said IU President Myles Brand, "and many of them are requesting a winter ceremony. By the time our traditional commencement ceremonies arrive in May, many December grads have started new jobs and are unable to attend. They and their parents want to celebrate the accomplishment of earning a college degree, and we are happy to accommodate their wishes."

The IU Alumni Association, which is responsible for planning and staging commencement exercises, estimated that as many as 1,500 students may graduate in December and that all will be eligible to attend the winter ceremony.