University Joint-Commencement Set for Sunday, May 18th

Graduates after the 2013 UH Maui College Commencement Ceremony. Image courtesy UHMC.

By Maui Now Staff

For the first time, a joint commencement will be held, combining ceremonies for graduates of the University of Hawaiʻi Maui College and the University of Hawaiʻi Center, Maui.

The ceremony is set for 4:30 p.m. this Sunday, May 18, at the Maui Arts & Cultural Center.

University administrators say the venue will accommodate graduates from both programs and their families to celebrate commencement at the same time.

In previous years graduates were limited to the amount of family members they could invite to the ceremony due to limited space.

Graduates after the 2013 UH Maui College Commencement Ceremony. Image courtesy UHMC.

“There’s a breadth of opportunities for higher education here on Maui, and having a combined commencement for both UHMC and the UH Center illustrates just what’s available to our community,” said UHMC Interim Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs Cathy Bio in a university press release.

“It also shows the continuum from associate’s degree to master’s degree, which will inspire students to consider all their degree options,” said Bio.

UH Center, Maui Director Karen Hanada also commented saying, “We’re excited at the prospect of a combined commencement.  It’s important that Maui County residents understand their options when it comes to choosing a degree path, and not everyone can or wants to leave Maui County to pursue their higher education. The UH Center offers our community the chance to work, meet their family obligations, and still reach their academic goals.”

Graduates after the 2013 UH Maui College Commencement Ceremony. Image courtesy UHMC.

During the ceremony, UH Maui College graduate Anna Miller will be recognized as the valedictorian, and a commencement address will be delivered by Lieutenant Governor Shan Tsutsui.

The ceremony will also include performances of the State Anthem and Hawai‘i Pono‘ī, by UHMC’s Institute for Hawaiian Music.

The amphitheater will to the public at 3:35 p.m.

University officials say tickets will not be required for attendance, seating will be on a first come-first served basis, and weather will not delay or halt commencement ceremonies.

Graduates after the 2013 UH Maui College Commencement Ceremony. Image courtesy UHMC.