Commencement success

Today was Rob's first spring commencement as Dean of the College of Music, and I would pronounce it a success. It was personal in tone, dignified, interesting and short! Rob himself gave a very good talk which emphasized that a music education teaches many universal life skills. There was an excellent octet which played Handel and Mozart. No Pomp and Circumstance. The outstanding student gave a good talk, and of course, many families cried and shouted. What more can you ask?

Here are some scenes (I was in the very back row, so these pix are not too sharp):

                                The wind octet

                              Doctoral candidates process 

                     Dean Shay welcomes the graduates 

 Michael and Michelle Ritter receive a Distinguished service award - 

         they have  endowed the program in classical guitar. 

                             Applause for all the grads 

Rob stayed for a reception, Betsey, Ellen and I came home. We expect to see Katie within the hour. Oh joy!