Kent State Alumni Association is hosting its first Salute to Seniors event from 5-7 p.m. May 8 near the Rock on front campus.

“It’s a picnic and celebration of graduation,” said Nancy Schiappa, associate director of alumni relations.

In case of inclement weather, the event will be held in Moulton Hall.

Dining Services will cater the event. Graduates will receive free food, but guests will be required to pay $12.50 to eat.

There will be door prizes and a DJ, Schiappa said. Other activities will include cornhole and hillbilly golf.

A 12-foot banner will be at the event for graduates to sign. The banner will then be hung across the M.A.C. Center the day of graduation.

All activities planned for this event were based on student research, Schiappa said.

Electronic invites were sent to students who are graduating in May, August or December 2009. The deadline to RSVP is Friday. Those who commit by the deadline will get a free “Class of 2009” T-shirt.

Graduates can RSVP at www.ksualumni.org or call 330-672-5863.

As of now, about 75 graduates have committed to attending.

“We’re learning a lot,” Schiappa said. “We hope to tweak it throughout the years. If you’re not graduating this year, look for the event next year.”

– Rachel Polchek