May 2, 2008

Julie Hanna.

 For the first time, UAB graduates will wear green commencement robes accented with gold UAB seals, creating a sea of green and gold as about half of the 2,083 spring graduates take part in commencement. The ceremony will take place on Saturday, May 3 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at UAB Bartow Arena, 617 13th Street South.

"Our new green commencement robes are a new tradition at UAB," said Doug Rigney, Ph.D., vice president of student affairs. "Over the past few years we have seen the opening of the Campus Recreation Center, the Dining Commons, Blazer Hall, our freshman residence hall, and Heritage Hall, our new academic classroom building. School spirit has never been higher, and this new commencement tradition reflects that."

Commencement address given by technology entrepreneur Julie Hanna, who will receive the UAB National Alumni Society's Distinguished Alumna of the Year. 

Herman D. Bolden, chairman and president of Southern Coach Parts Co., will receive the honorary degree Doctor of Humanities.

Note to Media: The best photo op times will be at 2 p.m. when the processional begins and at 4 p.m. when students will toss their caps and green and gold balloons will fall. The media relations specialist will be outside the Green & Gold Room, stage right from platform, to assist media.