The University of Wisconsin-Madison Union team will host a variety of festivities from May 8 to May 14 for the upcoming graduates. The Class of 2022 accomplished many incredible feats in their time at UW-Madison, and staff around campus want to ensure they feel celebrated and appreciated.
“The Union’s graduation events have helped us connect with more of our class and see old faces,” UW senior Rachel Dubyak told The Daily Cardinal. “I love UW-Madison, and have so much pride for my school. Being a part of the community here is something I will miss dearly, and I’m looking forward to [this] weekend’s events.”
The Wisconsin Union team will provide activities such as cap decorating and live music at Memorial Union and Union South for graduates, as well as their families and friends, to celebrate their achievements.
Graduates will have the opportunity to decorate their caps at “Cappy Hour.” This event will run from noon to 10 p.m. on May 8 through May 13 at the Wheelhouse Studios on the lower level of Memorial Union.
The fun continues with live music performances at Memorial Union Terrace at 7 p.m. on May 13 and May 14. The Funkee JBeez will take the stage on Friday, followed by The Mersey Brothers featuring Sean Michael Dargan on Saturday.
Commencement ceremonies will be livestreamed for family and friends of graduating Badgers — for bachelor’s, master’s and law degree recipients — at noon on May 14. Viewing areas include the Sett and Sun Garden at Union South and Der Rathskeller and the Terrace at Memorial Union. Seating will be first come, first served.
“We are deeply proud of our new alumni,” Mark Guthier, Wisconsin Union director and associate vice chancellor for Student Affairs, said in a news release. “They have accomplished so much in the past few years, and it is our honor to provide the spaces where they can celebrate their university experience.”
There are also plenty of opportunities for graduates to get free professional photos taken on the big Terrace chairs. Photographers will be at the Plaza at Union South on May 14 from 10 a.m. to noon and at the Memorial Union Terrace from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m that same day.
Families and friends can pick up Badger swag and flowers for their graduates at Badger Markets located in the unions. Lifetime Wisconsin Union memberships are available at a 75% discount for graduates for a limited time.
“The Union team has done so much to make our entire class feel so special and it is not going unnoticed,” said UW senior Abbie Silverstein. “I can’t wait for this weekend’s events and [I] am especially looking forward to the photo opportunities because I know these are memories I will cherish forever.”
For additional information, check out the Wisconsin Union’s schedule of events for graduates: https://union.wisc.edu/events-and-activities/special-events/graduation-weekend/.
