Poor form at SEMO graduation

I was aghast at the entire SEMO graduation ceremony Saturday. Never have I been so disappointed in an event that should have been a dignified and uplifting experience for graduates, families and friends. It was more like a three-ring circus complete with even the concession stand selling refreshments.

As an alumn of SEMO, I was truly saddened by the entire ceremony. All the ruckus, outbursts and horns blowing added to the disorder of the ceremony. As the graduates walked across the stage to receive their diplomas, three quarters of them continued to walk out of the building followed by family and friends. By the time the last few remaining graduates walked across the stage, few were left in the Show Me Center.

Why didn't President Dobbins and those in charge at the beginning of the ceremony ask for respectful behavior and for folks to remain in place 'til it was over? Why didn't the professors who were the marshals see to it that the students returned to their seats? From the comments of those seated around me and from talking with those in attendance, comments were the same. People were appalled by the ceremony from beginning to end.

The usual pomp and circumstance and the solemnity of what should have been a beautiful event was marred. I really believe our university can and should do better than this.

Noretta Blattner, Jackson