UTM is starting a new tradition for graduating seniors this semester. The first ever “UTM Grand Finale Celebration and Senior Walk” will be held on May 4, 2005.

The celebration will start at noon with a picnic luncheon in the quad which is to be followed by the “Senior Walk.” According to Chancellor Nick Dunagan, the walk is a chance for graduates to have a time of reflection as they take one of their last strolls around campus. All students and faculty members are invited to come watch and use noisemakers, signs and other non-destructive items to say goodbye. The alma mater will be played and the walkway will be lined with blue, orange and white flags to mark the path.

“The grand finale is a picnic lunch free for all the graduating seniors (spring and summer),” said Charlie Deal, director of alumni relations. “The walk will start at 1:30 and any and everybody is invited to join as we form a solid passage way from the picnic area to the Elam Center at 2 p.m. The picnic area is going to be behind Crisp Hall and we will line the walk down in front of Brehem Hall and shoot across to the Elam center from there. There will be a live web cast at www.utmforever.com so family and friends can watch.”

During the picnic, graduates will be eligible to win several door prizes; the most coveted being the seven day, six night vacation to one of 1,500 resort locations. Possible destinations can be found at www.alumnitravelbenefits.com The other two large prizes being given away are a 2005 class ring from Balfour and a diploma frame, both worth over $100.

“I’m mainly going because practice is right afterwards,” said Isaac Sorrell, a communications major from Ripley, “but it is a good chance for everyone to be together one last time.”

Chris Burgin, a May 2004 graduate wishes that something like the celebration had been in place when he graduated.

“Honestly, it was instantaneous. As soon as graduation was over, it was done,” said Burgin. “You’re there and then bam, you’re done. It would have been nice to have a farewell event. It sounds like a great way to see everyone together and be with the friends you went through college with.”