Annie’s Mailbox: Commencement: Solemn or silly?

Dear Annie: “A Graduate’s Mom” should lighten up about decorum at graduation ceremonies. I am a professor at a large university, and I participate in graduation every year. The faculty and administrators provide the necessary pomp and circumstance. But these young people have worked hard for four years and deserve to celebrate.

I am proud of what they’ve accomplished. How often does one graduate from college? And as a parent, aren’t you anxious to celebrate an end to tuition bills? You should be standing on your chair and shouting to the rooftops. As long as it doesn’t include vulgarity, I’m happy to witness the celebration every year. To “A Graduate’s Mom,” I say congratulations and WOO-HOO! – A Proud Prof, Lawrence, Kan.

Dear Prof: Our mail was fairly divided on this subject. Read on:

From Michigan: Our local high school is very strict about graduation ceremonies. Boys must wear ties and dress shoes; girls, proper dress wear and shoes – no floppies. If a student does not comply, he or she must make it right, or they will not receive a diploma at the ceremony. No fireworks under the chairs or balloon bouncing. You get to hear each graduate’s name, and it’s an enjoyable day.

Nebraska: My children have all attended New England prep schools and competitive colleges. There is no rowdier a bunch of folks than the parents, grandparents and family members of a graduate. We have celebrated our own graduations and those of our children, nieces, nephews and friends with joy from our spots in the audience. We come with signs of congratulation, cowbells, vuvuzelas and megaphones. One year, a family of 15 shouted in unison, “We love you!” as their graduate walked across the stage. Across the aisle, a family of five wildly waved long ribbons on three-foot sticks when their graduate was announced. Two years ago, a family we know released white balloons as their graduate walked by. Our graduates have accomplished great things, with the love and support of their family and friends. We invite “A Graduate’s Mom” to shake a pom-pom in school colors, hold up a personalized sign, clang a bell and make a joyful noise with us.