Salisbury University - Evergreen Yearbook (Salisbury, MD)

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Firsts Lasts Graduation was full of firsts and lasts. The first December commencement exercises since 1979 were held December 20, 1987. The ceremony was not reinstated easily. Initially during a student forum some students requested the ceremony. The Office of the Vice-President of Academic Affairs reviewed questions about the cost of the ceremony, the number of attendees, and the burden that would be placed on several departments. In light of this information as well as the fact that the faculty had voted against the ceremony, the administration decided that it just was not feasible. The concerned students did not accept this decision. Instead, they appealed to the Office of the President. At a presentation to the faculty, these students made what Vice-President of Academic Affairs, Dr. K. Nelson Butler described as a “first rate and rather emotional appeal.” Through this appeal, the students obtained the support of the faculty and the administration. And, after a great deal of extra efforts on the part of various departments, the December ceremony returned. Another first was associated with graduation. The class was the first to be able to receive diplomas with Salisbury State University printed on them. Although the school was not officially a university at the time of graduation, the graduates were offered the option of waiting until after July 1 to receive their diplomas. After July 1, the school would be a university. On the other hand, a last occurred along with this first. The class was actually the last graduating class of Salisbury State College. The graduates experienced a similar paradox. Graduation marked many beginnings and endings for them. They would have their degrees and begin new careers or new aspects of education. They would also begin new relationships with new friends and co¬ workers. Nevertheless, they were ending chapters of their lives. They were leaving behind faculty, friends, and experiences, but they were stepping ahead to new chapters. What was ahead remained to be seen. IS HE AS HAPPY AS THE STUDENTS? President Bellavance speaks his part at the May ceremony. 28 Graduation

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THE TRADITIONAL WALK UNDER THE SWORDS is about to occur for this couple. HOW ROMANTIC. This couple shares a tender moment before their stroll under the swords. Military Ball 27

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THIS IS THE MOMENT WE’VE BEEN WAITING FOR. During the May ceremony, this student receives her diploma. WELL, IT’S OVER. After receiving her diploma, this graduate is deep in thought. THE LONG AWAITED TASSEL CHANGE finally occurs at the May ceremony. Graduation 29