As The University of Alabama prepares for spring commencement weekend, UA has begun shifting its logistical efforts for commencement ceremonies to the Division of Strategic Communications.
Commencement has historically been handled by the Office of the Registrar. The move this spring will create a dedicated focus to a variety of aspects of commencement. Thus far, UA has launched a new commencement website, developed by Strategic Communications, and has distributed the new UA Commencement Guide across campus and at hotels throughout Tuscaloosa. A copy of the guide can be downloaded here.
“We recognized that commencement has grown tremendously over the last 10 years, and it requires a dedicated focus year-round to produce seven ceremonies a year,” said Linda Bonnin, vice president for Strategic Communications. “Commencement is a wonderful time to celebrate and acknowledge the achievements of our students.”
Enhancements to commencement ceremonies include the use of video messaging before each ceremony, enhanced use of social media platforms, the addition of parking signage, and the relocation of portrait photography to the Indoor Practice Facility to be more efficient with time and staff resources.
Additionally, concessions were opened on a trial basis last December, and will be open for Friday and Saturday ceremonies this weekend. Strategic Communications is also developing a commencement mobile app that should be available this fall.
“We will continue to enhance commencement activities so we can create an exceptional experience for our students and their guests,” Bonnin said.
Approximately 45,000 people are expected to attend this weekend’s ceremonies at Coleman Coliseum. Additionally, in May 2017, approximately 5,700 people watched the ceremonies via livestream in the United States and 16 foreign countries.