Wheeling attorney Cathy M. Armstrong, chair of the West Virginia Higher Education Interim Governing Board, will be the featured speaker at West Virginia Universitys December Graduates Convocation on Friday, Dec. 8, at the Creative Arts Center.

A partner in the Litigation Department of Thorp Reed&Armstrong, LLP , Armstrong came to West Virginia in the late 1970s with her husband Paul Tucker. Since that time she has worked to improve the states higher education system by serving as a member and then chairperson of the University System Board of Trustees. When Senate Bill 653 was passed earlier this year, she agreed to head the interim governing board until a new higher education policy commission is in place next year. Armstrong also is a member of the WVU Board of Advisors.

A 1972 graduate of Mount Holyoke College, she earned her J.D. degree in 1977 at the University of Pittsburgh School of Law.

Armstrong and her husband reside in Wheeling and have two daughters, Sarah and Kathryn.

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. The 6 p.m. ceremony has been filled, but reservations for the 8:30 p.m. ceremony can still be made by calling 293-8593. No tickets will be issued for the ceremonies, but due to limited seating reservations are required and will be honored on a first-come, first-served basis.

This year, graduates will wear traditional caps and gowns and will cross the stage as their names are called. A photographer will take a commemorative photo of each graduate as she/he crosses the stage. In the past, graduates did not dress in formal attire and only stood as a group as their college was recognized.

All degree candidates should report to Room 200B of the CAC 30 minutes prior to their convocation ceremony to put on regalia and receive instructions.

December graduates can purchase their caps and gowns at WVU Bookstores or contact Alicia Cayton at 293-7464 for more information. Graduates choosing to attend the May 13 Commencement exercises 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.