The third annual Almost Alumni Lunch and Countdown to Commencement event helped current seniors celebrate their academic achievements and walked them through last minute preparations before they walk across the stage in December.
The luncheon took place on Tuesday, Oct. 11 in the Reeve Memorial Union Ballroom and was organized by UW Oshkosh Alumni Relations.
Seniors were welcomed by UWO Alumni Relations director, Christine Gantner and provided lunch. She offered her congratulations and explained to the seniors all the services UWO provides its alumni.
“We really felt as if we weren’t doing enough to welcome our new graduates,” Ganter said. “This is an opportunity to showcase our new graduates and congratulate them on all of their hard work.”
Alumni Association Board members were there to speak with the students as well, sharing their own academic experiences and advice for life after UWO.
After lunch, the students headed to Countdown to Commencement. Countdown to Commencement is a graduation fair where students can purchase invitations, attire, announcements and ask questions.
“It’s a one-stop shop to get yourself prepared in advance so you don’t have to deal with the little details on the day [of graduation],” senior Abby Pillsbury said.
They were handed a card when they arrived that listed the various services and offices that will aid them in a successful commencement and UWO alumni experience.
The services included the Commencement Office, Student Loan Office, Alumni Office and many more.
UWO alumna Bailey Azarian said the open house and luncheon allows students to verify information and procedures for leaving Oshkosh.
“I think this event is important because it helps students make sure they are actually prepared for graduation,” Azarian said.
Should students procrastinate on getting all of their graduation details in order, this event allowed students to start checking off their list in order to prepare for graduation.
However, while the event is aimed at helping students arrive at their graduation date prepared, it also provides students with knowledge about being an alum and all that entails.
Gantner said she and the board of directors want to let the new graduates know it’s a great thing to stay involved with your alma mater and showcased other alums who have chosen to remain a part of UWO.
According to Gantner, Alumni Relations works hard to keep up with graduating students by sending out emails and a monthly newsletter, as well as being involved on social media and hosting special events.
“Mainly, I want them to leave being proud of the education they received and all they put into it,” Ganter said. “I want them to be proud of being a Titan.”