The UNM class of 1966 will be honored at this year’s University of New Mexico Commencement as the Golden Graduates of 2016.
The Golden Graduate tradition began as a salute to alumni who were unable to participate in their own commencement ceremonies because of WWII and the Korean War.
At the commencement, Golden Graduates are given gold-colored robes and have their names printed in the official program. In addition to the commencement ceremony, the graduates are invited to a reunion reception, followed by the Heritage Club Dinner.
The schedule of events is as follows:
Friday, May 13
10 a.m. – 2 p.m. – Open house and robe fitting
Golden Graduates will have the opportunity to enjoy coffee, tea, and treats while being fitted with their golden robe and mortarboard. They will also be able to explore Hodgin Hall Alumni Center, browse through yearbooks, take photos, and video tape their thoughts on life at UNM over 50 years ago.
10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. – Campus walking tour
The new Golden Graduates will be taken on a one-hour tour of the UNM campus, giving them the opportunity to see how much the university has grown. The tour will depart from Hodgin Hall Alumni Center.
4 – 5 p.m. – Wine and cheese reception
Here, the Golden Graduates will have the opportunity to mingle and reminisce with classmates and friends.
5 – 7 p.m. – Heritage Club Dinner
Golden Graduates may attend the dinner for a great eventing of food, fun, music, recognition, and friends. The dinner is $30 per person, for those who wish to attend.
Saturday, May 14
8:15 a.m. arrival time – Commencement
The 2016 Golden Graduates will kick off the UNM Commencement and will be seated in front of the stage. Golden Graduates are asked to be at the Wise Pies Arena, aka the Pit, by no later than 8:15 a.m. For instructions on the commencement, click here.
To register to be a Golden Graduate and to view hotel deals and rates, visit the Alumni Association website or contact Kathie Scott, (505) 277.9093 or kascott@unm.edu.
