FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, March 10, 2008
Contact: Dave Wellman, Director of Communications (304) 696-7153
 

Countdown to Commencement is March 18-19 at Marshall University

HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Countdown to Commencement 2008, a two-day event in which graduating students can complete pre-commencement responsibilities, will take place next week on Marshall University’s Huntington campus.

Numerous services will be available for students as they prepare for graduation at Countdown to Commencement 2008, which will take place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, March 18-19, in the Memorial Student Center’s Don Morris Room.

Countdown to Commencement 2008 is for all July 2007, August 2007, December 2007 and May 2008 graduates of Marshall University and the Marshall Community and Technical College. Students will be able to purchase academic regalia, announcements, diploma frames, class rings and other items to commemorate their graduation.

“This event provides an opportunity for our graduates to confirm arrangements for participation in the annual commencement exercises in a one-stop-shop experience,” said Marshall University Registrar Roberta Ferguson. “Various campus offices contribute to the atmosphere of celebration for our graduates.  Response to the event last year was tremendous with many of the graduates commenting on the convenience of the services provided.  We hope to make this year’s event even better.”

Marshall University will celebrate its 171^st commencement at 9 a.m. Saturday, May 10 at the Big Sandy Superstore Arena. The community college commencement is at 7 p.m. Friday, May 9 at the Keith-Albee Performing Arts Center.

The following services will be available at Countdown to Commencement 2008:

Registrar’s Office – Students can verify graduation status, name format, and address for mailing diploma; confirm commencement participation; receive commencement instructions; pick up honor cords and tassel (if graduating with academic honors); and have an opportunity to ask any questions related to commencement.

Individual College Recognition Ceremonies – Information will be available for the individual college recognition events held in conjunction with commencement.

Marshall University Bookstore – Students can be measured for and purchase their cap and gown, as well as purchase tassels, diploma frames, class rings, graduation announcements and much more. They also can order personalized graduation announcements at this time.

Jostens – Students can purchase their Marshall University Class of 2008 rings. All rings are on sale and priced as low as $239. Delivery by graduation is guaranteed. Students also may ask about interest-free installment plans.

Alumni Relations – Students can learn about the benefits of a Marshall University Alumni Association membership.

Graduate College – A graduate admission counselor will be available to discuss graduate programs and assist with the admission process.

Marshall Community and Technical College – Students can receive detailed information about the Community and Technical College graduation ceremony.

Career Services – Students are encouraged to let the Career Center know their post-graduation plans so it can help them along their career path. Students may stop by the Career Services table to register for EASE (online job search assistance). Information and support will be available on job-related questions, resume assistance, interview skills and much more.

Office of the Bursar – Students may talk with staff about anything concerning their student accounts, holds, account balances and loan counseling interviews. For loan counseling, students will need to bring their Student ID and the addresses and phone numbers of two references.

Financial Aid – Students may pick up information about federal student loan consolidation programs.

Center for African American Students’ Programs – Students may enroll and prepare for the May 1, 2008, Donning of Kente Celebration of Achievement. They also will be provided with academic advising for graduate school and post-graduate employment.

Center for International Programs – Graduating study abroad students and international students will be able to purchase international flag sashes. Also, information about work, teaching and study opportunities abroad will be distributed.

For more information, contact the Office of the Registrar at (304) 696-6410.

###