URBANA — This year's commencement ceremony was held Saturday, May 31, at the Tryon Festival Theatre in the Krannert Center for the Performing Arts.

Hundreds of family members, friends, faculty, and well-wishers turned out to congratulate the 64 new graduates as they ended their careers as Uni students and officially began their journey as Uni alums.

Student speakers were Micah Berman, who delivered the welcome address, and Zoë Schein, who gave the farewell. To listen to Schein's speech, click the audio icon at right.

Connecticut attorney Frank H. Finch Jr., Class of 1949, returned to Urbana to receive the 2008 Max Beberman Distinguished Alumni Award.

Barbara Oehlschlaeger-Garvey spoke on behalf of the Parent-Faculty Organization. Social studies teacher Billy Vaughn gave the commencement address, while chemistry teacher David Bergandine delivered the benediction.

Social studies teacher Chris Butler and Spanish teacher Jenna Finch presented flowers to the graduates as Assistant Principal Sue Kovacs read their names and rising senior Adam Tiouririne read brief final words from each.

Zoë will attend Grinnell College in Iowa. Gargoyle photo (click to enlarge)