Physical Plant prepares for graduation

By Heather Buckner

Spring commencement has become an iconic moment in an undergraduate’s college career. So what does it take to make a day like that come together?

The Physical Plant works all year to ensure Flower Hill 
looks its best for graduation.

“The graduation, commencement, we view that as the most important time for a student in their experience with the campus,” said Billy Hughes, director of the Physical Plant. “Keeping that in mind, we keep the lawn manicured, fertilized, we treat for ants. We take steps all year long to make sure we are gearing for that one day.”

"There are a lot of different hands involved in graduation on my end, from the grounds to the carpenters to horticulture," he explained.

Each department plays a crucial role in preparation. The horticulture department, for example, brings all of the ferns and flowers for display onstage.

Location for spring commencement depends entirely on the weather. So what does the University do to prepare for rain?

Commencement will be held in the SAC if it rains.

“If there is a chance of rain or a chance of calling it off, we will have the Student Activity Center set up as well. It is the standby. It will be set up whether it is used or not,” said Hughes.

With Monday and Tuesday efforts likely thwarted by severe weather, the University Physical Plant has doubled efforts to make up for that lost time.

"I would say — the amount of hours we put in would be in to that — it would be in the hundreds, easily," Hughes said.

One thing is certain — whether spring commencement is held on Flower Hill or down the road at the SAC, the University is preparing to make May 3 perfect for its newest alumni.