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Eastern Michigan University commencement marks 160th anniversary of founding

Michigan Normal School's first graduating class, in 1854, consisted of four women and five men. The ceremony was simple and took place in the only campus building.

MOVING FORWARD INTO HISTORY: Eastern Michigan
University students graduating at the April 26
commencement ceremonies will do so as a part of
history. Approximately 1,800 students will be eligible
to participate in a graduation that marks the 160th
anniversary of EMU.

As EMU celebrates the 160th anniversary of its founding in 1849 and 155 years of graduations, more than 1,800 students will be eligible to participate in commencement ceremonies Sunday, April 26, at the Convocation Center (799 N. Hewitt Rd.).

There are two ceremonies, one at 10 a.m. and one at 2 p.m. Doors open 90 minutes before each ceremony. Tickets are limited to graduates and their families and friends.

Approximately 1,595 undergraduates and 579 graduate students (including nine doctoral candidates) are eligible to participate.

Eastern Michigan University President Susan W. Martin will preside over the commencement ceremonies.

Ernest Brandon, professor of music, will serve as grand marshal for the 10 a.m. ceremony. Jeanne Pietig, professor of teacher education, is the grand marshal for the 2 p.m. ceremony.