As the Castleton Class of 2015 prepares to move their cap tassels from the right side to the left at the 228th Commencement ceremony on Saturday, they will spend their last few days as students participating in the rich traditions of Castleton graduating seniors, beginning with the candle lighting ceremony.
Started in the early 1960’s and becoming heavily popular 1980’s, the candle lighting ceremony has since been a tradition carried on at Castleton. Two days before commencement graduates walk through the alumni gates below Woodruff Hall, just as they did when entering as incoming first-year students.
The light from the candles is a symbol of learning and a way to help students remember and celebrate their four years of college.
“Traditions reflect the interest and culture of the time,” said Victoria Angis, Assistant Dean of Campus Life and main Castleton graduation coordinator. “I hope they will continue on as long as they will be meaningful to the students.”
Another standing Castleton graduation tradition includes the senior gift. Each year Senior Class Officers select what their class would like to donate to the school, leaving a longtime reminder of their specific graduating class.
This year the Class of 2015 has decided to purchase new yoga equipment, mats, and medicine balls for the fitness center.
When commencement day finally arrives and seniors make their way to the Castleton Pavilion dressed in their caps and gowns, as tradition holds members of the alumni association, the university President, faculty and other nominated marshals lead the soon to be graduates into ceremony.
Followed by the singing of the national anthem and the traditional Castleton Alma Mater, awards are given out and participants are each handed their diploma before joining the proud, ever-growing group of Castleton alumni.