Events
May 3, 2010
Your handy Commencement cheat sheet
2009 Candlelight Crossover
Emory Commencement Weekend, May 6–10, is not just a communitywide celebration of the University’s present and future (the Class of 2010’s journey from students to alumni). It’s also a respectful remembrance of its past.
So while the next generation of alumni is rightfully the focus of the second weekend in May, past generations of alumni also take a well-deserved turn in the spotlight, making for a weekend that ties together Emory community members of all ages.
Many Commencement Weekend events are longtime traditions, but one of the new ones highlights the annual Corpus Cordis Aureum induction ceremony on May 9. The ceremony will feature the presentation of the inaugural Judson C. Ward Golden Heart Award. The 2010 award will be presented posthumously to Ward, who passed away at the age of 97 on Nov. 1, 2009. Among his many accomplishments, Ward was a leading advocate for Corpus Cordis Aureum, the Emory’s alumni group for graduates from 50 years ago or earlier.
Below are just a few highlights of Commencement 2010. The full Commencement schedule on the EAA website is the best place for news and updates about Emory Commencement Weekend. The EAA’s blog, EAAvesdropping, will be updated throughout the weekend, as well the EAA’s Facebook fan page.
Emory Commencement Weekend mini-schedule
Thursday, May 6
3 p.m.
Oxford College Continuee Reception. Graduation’s so nice, these students do it twice! 2008 then 2010.
7:30 p.m.
Candlelight Crossover Alumni Pre-Reception. Two words. Chocolate fountains. They won’t start flowing until 8:30 p.m., after the Class of 2010 crosses the Houston Mill Bridge, but you can line up anytime.
Friday, May 7
8 p.m.
100 Senior Honorary Reception. Only the best of the best of the best seniors can be named to this exclusive group. Meet them now and be nice; one day we’ll all be working for them.
9 p.m.
The Torch and Trumpet Soirée. Because of Dekalb Co. statutes, no torches will be allowed in the Emory Conference Center Hotel at the annual dance party for graduating seniors and their families. The Gary Motley Trio will handle the trumpets, followed by a DJ, who’ll surely throw enough fire for everyone.
Saturday, May 8
10 a.m.
Oxford Commencement. Emory got its start on the Oxford campus, so it’s only polite to give them a head start. Dennis Liotta, Samuel Candler Dobbs Professor of Chemistry at Emory, is the speaker.
Noon
Block Party. A family-friendly Commencement Weekend highlight. Grab some chili dogs from the Varsity without having to fight Midtown traffic to do it.
5 p.m.
Modupe Dayo. This annual celebration honors Emory’s African American graduates. Includes music, dance, and lots of fun.
5 p.m.
Candler Singers Concert. The Candler Singers are all seminary students preparing for ministry work around the world. And, of course, they’re pretty remarkable vocalists.
6–7:30 p.m.
50-Year Reunions. The nursing and theology school events start at 6 p.m., and Emory College and the business school begin 90 minutes later. Make sure you are at the right one, or the conversation could be awkward.
Sunday, May 9
10:30 a.m.
Commencement Brunch. It’s Mother’s Day, so new graduates will be doubly motivated to attend.
11:30 a.m.
President’s Open House. Lullwater will be open for all Emory Commencement Weekend guests. Decorating tips are free if you ask nicely.
2 p.m.
Cherry Emerson Memorial Alumni Concert. Our annual classical concert featuring Emerson Professor of Piano Will Ransom and alumni and student musicians. A high-class highlight.
3:30 p.m.
Corpus Cordis Aureum Medallion Ceremony. How long does it take a black robe to turn into gold? About half a century.
Monday, May 10
8 a.m.
The 165th Commencement Exercises. Exercise at 8 a.m.—a great way to start the day. California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger leads the calisthenics.
