Details — Baccalaureate — May 12
| Date: 5/12 | Time: 4:30 p.m. |
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Seniors, faculty, and administrators are invited to attend the annual Baccalaureate ceremony on Friday, May 12, at 4:30 p.m. in Shafer Auditorium. This year’s program includes reflections by graduating students, the Spiritual and Religious Life director, Spiritual and Religious Life advisors, the Dean of Diversity, and Pres. Cole, addressing the theme “Resilience.”
Seniors who wish to participate must attend a rehearsal on Thursday, May 11, from 1 -2 p.m. in Shafer Auditorium. Seniors who want to participate can add their names to the spreadsheet here.
Faculty and administrators are also invited to process with the class in academic regalia. Those who want to do so should line up in the Art Gallery at 4:15 p.m. Rehearsal is optional for faculty and administrators, but if you wish to join, it will be on Thursday, May 11, from 1-2 p.m. in Shafer Auditorium.
We hope many of you will join us to celebrate the accomplishments of the Class of 2023.
What is Baccalaureate? Related to the Latin word “baccalaureus,” which refers to granting a bachelor’s degree, Baccalaureate service has its roots in our nation’s colonial period. Beginning with the founding of Harvard College in 1636, American higher education was predominantly private and religious. This characteristic continued until the first public Land Grant colleges were established in the mid-nineteenth century.
In such a context, it was natural that religious expression would be integral to official observance. Thus began a uniquely American graduation custom: Baccalaureate service. Allegheny College celebrates with service and content that reflects the multi-faith nature of our community and seeks to address the spiritual aspect of this milestone for all of our graduates, regardless of their religious or spiritual commitment.