Robert T. Sumichrast
Dean and Simon S. Selig, Jr. Chair for Economic Growth

Published: November 12, 2009 | Vol. 2, Issue 5

When Terry College of Business students graduate in May 2010, they will have a new recognition. We will hold the first collegewide graduation convocation to complement the university's commencement activities. The Terry Graduation Convocation will be held a week prior to the UGA ceremony, on May 1. The convocation will provide each graduate from all of our degree programs — undergraduate and graduate — with an opportunity for personal recognition of their achievements.

Since this is the first time we have conducted this event, we are inviting students who graduated in December 2009 and those who will complete their degrees in the summer of 2010 to participate alongside those who graduate in May. Terry College alumnus and Aflac CEO Dan Amos will provide a memorable keynote address. You can read more about Dan Amos in the convocation story in this newsletter.

I have often heard from students and alumni that they would like a more personal recognition of their graduation than can be accommodated in the university's commencement exercises, where thousands of graduates are receiving their degrees. This gives me confidence that we will have good attendance from not only our students, but also their families and friends.

I want to thank the task force that has been working on recommendations to create a special event for Terry graduates since last spring, and I believe their recommendations will lead us to the right balance between formality and fun. As more of the details are finalized, students and anyone else who's interested can get more information at the convocation website.

We cannot do everything that students and alumni might suggest but we promise to take all ideas and concerns seriously. Our new Terry Graduation Convocation is just one example of how we deliver on that promise.

Robert T. Sumichrast, Dean
Terry College of Business

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