Commencement Day and Mother’s Day won’t be the same date next spring.

Traditionally, the last of three ceremonies was held the Sunday of Mother’s Day. All commencement ceremonies will now take place Saturday, May 9, 2009, to make the event more convenient.

“There’s always been concern about it being on Sunday,” said Kelly Daw, director of academic affairs events and communications. “We want families to be able to travel … to have their parties.”

The change also simplifies things for those organizing the event. For one, it consolidates setup and cleanup to one day, Daw said.

“It actually makes it easier to get volunteers,” she said, “because you’re not asking for a two-day commitment.”

There will now be three ceremonies May 9 – at 10 a.m., 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. The extra hour between the last two ceremonies will allow time for everyone to get some food and air.

“We don’t want anyone to be unhappy,” Daw said. “We want everyone to have a great experience.”

Contact principal reporters Ben Wolford at [email protected].