Commencement can be live-streamed at https://youtu.be/cg88E9Gma2k beginning at 11:00 a.m.
Nearly 200 graduates are expected to receive their degrees on Wednesday, Dec. 18, during Lander University's 160th Commencement Exercises, beginning at 11 a.m. in Finis Horne Arena.
Ceremony Details:
Doors to the arena will open at 9 a.m. and will close at 10:45 a.m. Also, tickets are required for entry. Latecomers and those without tickets will be directed to the Abney Cultural Center, where the ceremony will be broadcast via closed circuit television (CCTV) and projected onto a large screen inside the auditorium. No tickets are required to enter the auditorium.
Keynote Speaker:
Lander University's 2019 Distinguished Professor, Dr. Franklin D. Rausch, will give the keynote address. A native of Plainfield, Indiana, his interest in history was sparked while watching World War II documentaries with his father.
As an undergraduate student at Indiana University, Rausch developed a curiosity for Asian culture. After earning bachelor's and master's degrees, he obtained his Ph.D. in Asian Studies from the University of British Columbia. Upon joining the Lander faculty in 2012, Rausch quickly became known by his students as a dynamic and inspiring teacher. He earned the university's Young Faculty Scholar Award in 2015; the Moore Award for Excellence in General Education Teaching in 2016; and the Distinguished Professor Award in 2019.
Security Measures - Clear Bag Policy:
In an effort to provide a safe environment for our graduates and their guests, university police will enforce a clear bag policy. Security measures also include metal detectors at both main entrances of Horne Arena. All items are subject to search.
Livestream on Website
For those who cannot attend, a live stream of the ceremony will broadcast on Lander's website at www.lander.edu. The stream begins shortly before 11 a.m. that morning.
Post Ceremony - Diploma Pickup
Upon conclusion of the ceremony, graduates will be led in formal recession to nearby Joe V. Chandler Center, where they will receive their official diplomas. Graduates will then join family, friends and faculty outside on the front lawn near the fountain for a Graduate Reception.