Baccalaureate service no longer 'religious'

The age-old University tradition of the Baccalaureate -- a non-secular spiritual ceremony held before Commencement -- was continued last Wednesday when hundreds of graduating seniors and their families congregated in Irvine Auditorium to contemplate the newest milestone in their lives. Committee on Strengthening the Community Chairperson Gloria Twine Chisum delivered the keynote address at the event, which, according to Chisum, was originally a "religious" ceremony. Although, for many, the importance of religion in society has eroded over the years, the Baccalaureate remains a "reflective" part of the graduation process which "address[es] the quality of life," Chisum said. Introduced by Interim Provost Marvin Lazerson as a "wonderful human being" who is "deeply committed to the University and the city," Chisum told graduates that they were "members of the elite of the world" because of their education. "You are the product of the best society and education has to offer," she said. Chisum reflected on her experiences as the Commission's chairperson. She said that she, along with the rest of the University community this year, learned that "freedom carries with it responsibility." The racially tense atmosphere at the University taught community members the importance of "being sensitive to another person's wishes," Chisum said. Interim President Claire Fagin also stressed the importance of self-knowledge in her Baccalaureate speech. "You honor yourself best when you cherish who you are," she said. Like Chisum, Fagin urged graduates to make "other people's dignity as precious to you as your own." Christian Association Executive Director Beverly Dale and Hillel Director Jeremy Brochin gave readings at the ceremony, and University Chaplain Stanley Johnson led non-secular prayers. Johnson said the Baccalaureate is not necessarily a religious affair, but "an opportunity to quietly contemplate the values of educations and what you just spent four years doing." Many students were impressed and moved by the ceremony. Wharton senior Joe Quesada said that Chisum gave "a good synopsis of the whole year" when she spoke of her experiences with the Commission. Brochin said Monday that the Baccalaureate was "lovely." "It's nice that people can gather in a spiritual context," he said.