It’s our favorite time of year; fall is in the air and CSU is gearing up for the 2016 Commencement Ceremony, Open House, and the Alumni Reception in Orange Beach, Alabama.
Each year, CSU graduates come from far and wide to participate in the commencement ceremony and proudly walk across the stage to accept their diplomas as their loved ones cheer them on. This year, we have more than 700 graduates registered, many of whom will visit the CSU campus for the first time. This will be our largest graduation ceremony to date and we could not be more excited to see all of you very soon.
For those graduating, you may be wondering what to expect. Besides (hopefully) beautiful weather, you can expect lots of friendly faces to help guide you and make sure you have the information you need every step of the way. Every event planned is with you, the graduate, in mind. The commencement festivities are meant to build your excitement, connect you with other Knights, and say a big “congratulations!” There is a lot going on during commencement and lots of excited graduates and family members, but we never want you to feel overwhelmed. Everything is in place to make you feel celebrated and accomplished!
You may have someone specific in mind from CSU with whom you would like to connect while you are on campus, perhaps an academic advisor or other specialist who helped you throughout your studies. This is encouraged and one of our favorites parts about graduation week! The best opportunity to do this is during Open House. This is when you will be able to see CSU staff members in their element and how our teams operate every day to deliver topnotch service to our beloved students and new graduates.
The Alumni Reception takes place on our unmatched beach and is a casual way for us to continue the celebration leading up to the day of commencement. Registration for the reception is required. Here, graduates and their guests will be able to enjoy the unique October air of the Gulf Coast as they mingle with fellow graduates and CSU staff members.
This is your celebration, your special week. It is your time to shine because you earned it. We are so proud of all of you!