Commencement 2009
Annual Report FY09
Commencement 2009 honored the achievements of 2,400 University graduates. Distinguished guests, 200 faculty members, and 15,000 guests were welcomed to the University’s Memorial Field by 150 volunteers for this greatly anticipated event.
In keeping with the University’s core value of sustainability, Commencement 2009 continued the theme of Inauguration 2.0, “Responsible. Resourceful. Sustainable.”
This year’s keynote address was delivered by Gary Hirshberg, chairman and CE-Yo of Stonyfield Farm, a company known for its pioneering efforts in sustainability. Complementing Hirshberg’s urgent message regarding the need to preserve and restore our environment, the completion of the University’s landfill gas project, EcoLine™, was commemorated. Thanks to EcoLine™, the University will receive up to 85 percent of its electricity and heat from purified natural gas, making UNH the first university in the nation to use landfill gas as its primary fuel source. This innovation will reduce the University’s dependence on fossil fuels, stabilizing fuel costs.
The Office of University Events and Programs (UEP) made choices in order to implement the most environmentally friendly Commencement possible. For example, caps and gowns will be cleaned and reused. Leftover food was composted and all eligible waste was recycled. With the expertise of University Communications and Marketing strong event messaging highlighted the University’s leadership in innovation. Through this event, the University has led by example and set new standards of practice.
During the month of May 2009, the University Events and Programs Commencement Web site was viewed over 16,000 times.
Photos
Commencement Video Part 1
Commencement Video Part 2
Commencement Video Part 3
