West Virginia Universitys December 2000 graduates will notice a little more pomp and circumstance at this years December Convocation Ceremony set for Friday, Dec. 8, at the Creative Arts Center.

This years graduatesdecked out in traditional caps and gownswill cross the stage as their names are called. In the past, graduates did not dress in formal attire and only stood as a group as their college was recognized.

“We are excited about the new additions to December Graduates Convocation,”said Eloise Tomei, senior special events coordinator.”This should personalize the ceremony for our students and their families.”

To accommodate the number of potential graduates and their families, WVU will host two convocations in the CAC Concert Theatre one at 6 p.m. and a second at 8:30 p.m. Wheeling attorney and chair of the West Virginia Higher Education Interim Governing Board Cathy M. Armstrong is the featured speaker.

Seniors graduating in December will receive an invitation to the December event in mid-November and will be asked to RSVP to indicate which ceremony they prefer to attend. Due to limited seating, reservations will be required and will be honored on a first-come, first-served basis.

December graduates can order their caps and gowns by calling Alicia Cayton at the WVU Bookstore, 293-7464. Graduates choosing to attend the May 13 Commencement ceremony at the WVU Coliseum in addition to the December Graduates Convocation will be able to use the same cap and gown for both ceremonies. The December event is not a degree-granting ceremony, but rather a chance to acknowledge students for their accomplishments.