[Teachldsseminary] Chat: Seminary Graduation Ideas Wanted

[debra storm]

We just had our graduation program as well.

A few months before, short bios on each graduating senior are collected, and
are printed in the program.
Posters for each ward or branch are made and handed out; and personal
invitations are given to each seminary student, graduating and
underclassmen.
A theme is chosen for the program - this year it was D&C 18:3-5

The program is held in the Chapel.
The seniors are lined up in the hallway. The congregation stands as a
processional is played and the seniors walk in to take their place up front.

Opening song and prayer is given, by seminary students.

There are 4 senior speakers, a musical number by seminary students, Faculty
recognitions, Scripture Scholar Awards given *(90% actual attendance, read
book of study, memorize current year SM, pass current years SM test with
100%, pass all past years' SM test with 90%, memorize 4 additional SM
passages) *, 4-year perfect attendance award given, then the diplomas are
handed out.

 The students are called alphabetically by Ward, then by last name. As the
supervisor calls their name, they come across the front of the chapel,
receive their diploma , and a special inscribed pen from the HC, the Stake
presidency is there to congratulate them, and as they walk down the other
side of the stairs, their bishop, their teachers and their family are there
to hug and congratulate them.

The graduating class is presented to the Stake president, who gives a short
talk.
Finally, there is an Institute representative who welcomes the seniors to
institute and briefly explains the activities of the student university ward
and institute program.
After closing hymn and prayer, the congregation stands as graduates exit the
chapel.

The program takes about 1 hour 15 minutes ( I would prefer a 1-hour program)

In the gym there are long tables set up for the seniors to display any and
all items, pictures, awards, sports items, etc. that tell who they are and
what they have accomplished in their life so far. Refreshments are provided
(the Stake provides a sheet cake and punch; the underclassmen bring a small
plate of finger foods)

This was my first year as supervisor, and this is the traditional program. I
think next year I might consider having 2 or 3 senior speaker (we went a bit
too long this year). I also would like to set up a simple picture taking
spot in the gym for the graduates.

I have heard of another stake in our area that also produces a short 10
second power point presentation of each graduate that is shown as they walk
across to receive their diplomas. I don't think they have the student table
displays, though.

I would love any ideas of graduation programs as well, for next year!

Debra
Columbus, OH


On 5/21/07, MomSandee at aol.com <MomSandee at aol.com> wrote:
>
> I am just packing away my materials and notes from this year and am
> including
> my notes concerning a few problems we had at this year's graduation
> ceremony.
> I just wanted to throw out the question:
> What do you think should be done or could be done or was done in your area
> to
> make Seminary graduation a special event?
>
> Thanks so much Sandee Spencer (newly assigned Stake Seminary Coordinator)
>
>
>
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