Purdue University - Debris Yearbook (West Lafayette, IN)

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As the trio plays, the processional members of the 1986 graduating class ascend the steps of Hovde Hall. Parents are also on hand, anxiously waiting the chance to take one last photo before the ceremony begins. (Julie Weltz photo) As the graduates near the steps of Hovde Hall, their last walk through campus comes to an end. (Julie Weltz photo) The graduation candidates are joined by members of the platform party and faculty as they move around the Loeb Memorial Fountain before entering Hovde Hall. (Julie Weltz photo) Graduation ♦ 27

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Just Once Graduation Day, the most anticipated day of a college career. Seniors make the most of it because it happens............ By Melissa Cline Dark clouds cluttered the sky, periodically spitting showers of rain. Each student looked up as he stepped out of the armory. The weatherman had predicted scattered showers and for once he had been right. Today would not just be one more walk across campus. No one dodged from building to building with an Exponent or backpack over his head, cursing a forgotten umbrella, Today was their day to strut, saunter, stroll, or skip, because it was their last walk across campus as an undergraduate. Family and friends that lined the sidewalks and filled the Hall of Music offered congratulations through a smile, handshake, hug, a tear. The realization that every friend met in a class, every book ever read, or every final taken (passed or failed) had somehow helped to lead to that final day overwhelmed many students. As they rounded the comer and headed towards the Engineering Mall, feelings of joy, sadness, elation, and hesitation flooded over them. Many details about the campus had already begun to change and few would ever see the end results of all the new Engineering Mall construction. As they entered Hovde Hall, many graduates smoothed their gowns, fixed their hair, and straightened their tassels. One student even affixed a sign reading Hi Mom on his cap in order to insure recognition. This type of insurance was not necessary though, because that day each of the 4,054 graduating students received recognition for his achievements and rewards for his accomplishments. The procession came to a halt as the first seniors entered Hovde Hall. For once, few students were bothered by the fact that they were waiting in line. After all, that line offered more than directions to the next line; it held the beginning of a future. The fanfare began as the graduating seniors began their descent down the aisles. ♦ During a break in the rain, students leave the armory marking the start of the procession and the beginning of graduation. (Julie Weltz photo) 26 ♦ Graduation

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Contrary to popular belief, students have been presented with respectable talent. The fault is not with the people who bring talent, but in those who choose to appreciate a generous variety. Regardless it is the Student Concert Committee who is responsible for bringing unique talent to ... By Melissa Cline and Jenn Hiler In the past such groups as The Go-Go's, Jimmy Buffet, J. Ceils Band, The Cars, Jefferson Starship, Elton John. Bob Dylan, and Journey have performed for the students of Purdue. More recently The Beach Boys, Amy Grant, The Firm, Chicago, and The Moody Blues have played in the Elliot Hall of Music. Amy Grant was the greatest profit earner of all the groups that have played at Purdue. Chicago was second to Amy Grant as far as success here was concerned. The Moody Blues caused a significant loss in profits; however, the all-time greatest failure was The Firm. A profit was not always made; in fact there hasn't been a profit since the Amy Grant concert! Sarah Ayers, president of Student Concert Committee, says, Students have the impression that the SCC picks bands we (SCC) want to see. This is not true, we try Purdue's Concerts to represent the students. In the past student attendance at concerts was 80% while the community made up the other 20%. More recently the ratio has been about 55% students to 45% community. One possible reason for the decrease may be that the bands that played here did not attract the college crowds. “SCC was established to represent the students. Right now we are not doing a good job. We realize that we need to be more careful in representing the students by doing more thorough market research, said Ayers. One idea the SCC implemented in August 1979 was the use of con-certificates. These allow all students that want to see a group the opportunity to buy up to 6 tickets without missing any classes or sleep. An added bonus to this system was that the lines were much shorter as well as quicker. The SCC was formed about ten years ago as an independent (continued on page 3V During the Amy Grant concert, a member of the road crew adjust a feedback ■peaker to ensure a quality performance. (David VVhittemore photo) 28 ♦ Concerts