Claremont McKenna College will celebrate its 60th anniversary beginning at 10 a.m. on Friday, March 23 with a full day of activities dedicated to students, faculty, and staff.
Convocation ceremonies led by President Pamela Gann will be held at 11 a.m. in McKenna Auditorium, with remarks from keynote speaker John Pitney Jr., the Crocker Professor of Politics. A procession featuring an alumni representative from each graduating class since the founding of the College will begin the ceremony. Those participating in the procession were primarily selected from among previous ASCMC presidents, class presidents, and class scribes. President Emeritus Jack Stark '57 also will speak about the early history of the College and discuss its founding. Additionally, food service worker Cheva Garcia, an employee of the College for 57 years, will receive an honorary membership in the College's alumni association, during a presentation by CMCAA president Laura (May) Grisolano '86.
Commemorative CMC Frisbees will be given to those attending the Convocation ceremony. Friday classes normally scheduled at 11 a.m. and noon will be postponed so that more students may participate.
A barbecue lunch catered by Bon Appetit will immediately follow on Parents Field at 12:15 p.m., with music entertainment by '80s cover band 7-FI. Students and other guests may then use their Frisbees in a campus-wide dorm Frisbee-golf tournament, beginning at 1 p.m. Dessert, including a chocolate fountain, will be featured in Collins Dining Hall at dinner.
The 60th anniversary festivities will conclude with a recreation of the College's Starlight Ball at 10 p.m. in McKenna Auditorium. This student-only party revisits the legendary event from the College's earliest days. Music will be provided by swing band Jumpin' Joz. In preparation for the evening event, members of The Claremont Colleges Ballroom Dance team will host dance lessons at 9 p.m.
Founders Day events have been organized by the 60th Anniversary Committee, composed of students, staff, and faculty members of the CMC community.
Vanessa Carter '08