New Mexico Congresswoman Heather Wilson is scheduled to give the commencement address at the University of New Mexico's 2004 Fall Commencement Ceremony Friday, Dec. 17, at 6 p.m. in the University Arena (“The Pit”).
Some 1,704 students are projected to receive degrees as follows: 1,276 bachelor's degrees, 320 master's degrees, one post-master's, 77 doctorates, nine juris doctorates, one graduate certificate, eight medical doctorates, nine pharmacy doctorates and three education specialists.
Richard W. Holder, deputy provost and professor of chemistry, will serve as master of ceremonies.
The University Band with Dan Kinsman, conductor, will play a selection of music for the ceremony's prelude and processional. Cody Wesner, a soprano pursuing her master's degree in vocal performance will sing the national anthem.
UNM President Louis Caldera will offer greetings followed by the commencement address delivered by Wilson. Serving the First Congressional District since 1998, Wilson is the first woman since Georgia Lusk in 1948 to serve in Congress from New Mexico. She is the first Air Force Academy graduate and the only woman veteran in Congress.
Provost Brian Foster will recognize honors graduates followed by the student address delivered by Sean Murray who is receiving his bachelor of science in mechanical engineering. Murray was awarded the Harry S. Truman scholarship in 2004 for his work in public service and leadership potential. As captain and right fielder of the UNM baseball team, Murray founded a peer-mentoring program in the athletic department. He also founded the I CAN Kids Camp to provide at-risk youth with an opportunity to play Little League.
The platform group will include UNM Board of Regents President James H. Koch, Doug Brown and Maria Griego Raby.
The conferring of degrees in course by President Caldera will be followed by Regent Koch offering congratulatory remarks. Wesner will then lead the singing of the alma mater followed by the processional.
In conjunction with commencement, several schools and colleges scheduled convocations for Saturday, Dec. 18. For more information, visit the fall commencement Web site, linked off the UNM homepage, www.unm.edu , click at lower left hand corner.
Contact: Laurie Mellas Ramirez, (505) 277-5915
Posted by scarr at December 9, 2004 03:37 PM