Lander University will celebrate the outstanding academic achievements of the Class of 2023 during Fall Commencement on Wednesday, Dec. 13, in Horne Arena.
In order to maximize the number of guests for each graduate, the University will conduct two ceremonies that day, with graduates participating in either the morning or afternoon exercises according to their respective academic colleges.
The schedule for the day is as follows:
10 a.m. Ceremony
2 p.m. Ceremony
Dr. Emily Prince, Lander University’s 2023 Distinguished Professor of the Year, will serve as the keynote speaker for both ceremonies. Prince has played a prominent role in refining Lander’s biology curriculum to allow biology majors to customize their studies according to their specific interests. The changes, along with the incorporation of more hands-on learning opportunities, have enhanced student success within the program.
A native of Covington, Ga., Prince has studied both freshwater and marine ecosystems. She earned a bachelor’s degree in cell and molecular biology at King College in Bristol, Tenn., and a Ph.D. in chemical ecology at Georgia Tech.
Tickets
Tickets are required to attend the commencement ceremony, and graduates will be allowed up to eight tickets for guest seating at their ceremony in Horne Arena. Guests without tickets will be directed to the overflow area, where a livestream broadcast of the ceremony will be playing. Please note that official graduation tickets are only available through the Lander University Registrar’s Office, and they are physical tickets. “Virtual” or “online” tickets are not valid and cannot be used for admittance to the arena.
Guest Arrival
The doors to Horne Arena will be open from 9 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. for the morning ceremony, and from 1 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. for the afternoon ceremony. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis and is not reserved.
It is recommended that guests arrive early to ensure ample time for parking, security screening and to find seating. Guests who arrive late will be directed to the Abney Cultural Center, where the ceremony will be livestreamed inside the auditorium.
Parking
Parking is free and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Guests with limited mobility or physical disabilities may be dropped off at the Willson Street entrance of Horne Arena.
Security
The University’s clear bag policy will be enforced in Finis Horne Arena and the Abney Cultural Center Auditorium. Metal detectors will be used at all entrances and items are subject to search. Noisemakers, airhorns and similar items are not permitted inside Horne Arena. Additionally, balloons, banners and other items that obstruct guests’ views of the stage are prohibited.
Livestream
For those unable to attend in person, the University will broadcast both ceremonies via livestream on the Lander website at www.lander.edu.
Additional Information
For more information about Lander’s commencement exercises, visit www.lander.edu/graduation.