Celebrating the Class of 2022: Commencement Traditions

On Saturday, May 7, 2022, we’re celebrating the Class of 2022 during our 156th Commencement Exercises. As we get excited for the ceremony, we’re taking a look back at the unique traditions that make up Commencement while looking ahead to what the future holds for our graduates. Some of our favorite Commencement traditions include:

• Commencement Exercises. Commencement itself is a beloved tradition at Dean! Each year, members of the community come together to recognize graduating students for their extraordinary achievements inside and outside the classroom. The graduating class begins their procession at 10:45 a.m. to cheers from faculty and staff, Dr. Rooney personally gives every student their diploma along with a hug or a handshake, and priceless memories are made by graduates and their family members.
• Student Speakers. Members of the Dean Community select a student representative to speak on behalf of the graduating class. This year, Jimmy Munro ’22 has been chosen to represent the Class of 2022 and speak at Commencement. Learn more about Jimmy’s experiences at Dean – and what he’s looking forward to about Commencement.
• The Bronze Boomer. No Dean tradition is complete without Boomer! As graduates, faculty and staff members process into the Commencement Ceremony, it’s tradition for each person to pat a bronze statue of Boomer on the head.
• 50th Society. During the procession into the ceremony, you may notice several individuals in yellow robes. These are members of the 50th Society, valued alumni who graduated at least 50 years ago. Each year, these members return to campus to participate in Commencement activities and to induct the newest class – those celebrating their 50th reunion. This year, we will be inducting graduates from the Classes of 1970, 1971 and 1972 into the 50th Society.
• Student Performances. In the early 1900s, pageants and more complex performances were a feature of every Commencement celebration. Though the performances are not as elaborate these days, Commencement still includes musical performances by Dean’s very own graduating students.
• Commencement Receptions. At Dean, Commencement isn’t just a one-day affair. In the days leading up to Commencement, graduates and their families have multiple opportunities to celebrate their accomplishments together. These include a Graduate Dinner and Graduate Brunch, a Graduate Celebration at the Campus Center, the Graduating Student Awards Ceremony, Commencement Reception for Graduating Students and Families and more.

Congratulations to the Class of 2022! We look forward to celebrating these traditions and more with you on Saturday. Learn more about Dean College Commencement.