SALISBURY, Md.- Salisbury University is honoring its past while setting new milestones as it hosts its 100th Spring Commencement on May 21-22, bringing the celebration back to campus for the first time in nearly 50 years.
According to the university, more than 1,200 graduates will cross the stage over the two-day event. Wednesday evening’s graduate ceremony, held at Maggs Physical Activities Center, marks the return of Commencement to university grounds for the first time since the 1970s. It also features a historic change, each of the 207 graduate students will be hooded on stage by faculty mentors or deans, a ceremonial first for the university.
Aaron Deal, a two-time alumnus and the 2003 Maryland Teacher of the Year, will deliver the Graduate Commencement address, becoming the University’s first-ever non-student speaker at that level. Deal is the supervisor of educational technology and the New Teacher Induction Program at Wicomico County Public Schools. Graduate student Peter Jabal of Salisbury, who is earning a master's degree in conflict analysis and dispute resolution, will also speak.
Thursday’s Undergraduate Commencement at Sea Gull Stadium—the first time the ceremony has been held there—will feature Dan Quinn, head coach of the Washington Commanders and Class of 1994 graduate. Quinn becomes the first undergraduate commencement speaker since 2001.
Joining Quinn is student speaker Stephora Alberi of Salisbury, receiving her bachelor's in computer science. During the ceremony, Dan and Stacey Quinn, alumna Class of 1991, will each receive honorary Doctor of Public Service degrees for their long-standing philanthropic contributions to the university, particularly Salisbury University Athletics. The university says the Quinns have established three endowments supporting Sea Gull student-athletes.
Dan Quinn, a former football and track and field athlete, and Stacey, a former athletic trainer, have maintained close ties with the university through leadership and financial support.
University System of Maryland Regent Tom McMillen will deliver remarks on behalf of the Board of Regents at both events.
The University will award 999 bachelor’s degrees, 205 master’s degrees and two doctorates. Tickets are required for entry. There is a traffic advisory for areas surrounding campus during both ceremonies.
