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Commencement Week Begins by Welcoming Alumni
To kick off commencement week festivities, New York area alumni were invited to a series of special events and gatherings at Juilliard.
The celebration began on the morning of May 21, when Studio 322 became the fitting setting of a brunch for dance alumni. Alumni from Juilliard’s very first dance class through its most recent attended and enjoyed the opportunity to visit and exchange experiences. Benjamin Harkarvy, the artistic director of the Dance Division, welcomed returning alumni and provided them with a glimpse of the current program and the exciting projects planned for the division’s 50th anniversary this year. Later in the evening, alumni were invited back to see the Senior Graduation Performance, which spotlighted the talented dancers of the class of 2001.
The Drama Division also hosted a special gathering on the evening of May 21. Drama alumni joined faculty, students, and friends in Morse Hall to honor Harold Stone, the retiring administrative director, who was presented with several gifts, including a scrapbook of photos, mementos, and messages sent by drama alumni around the globe. Alumni Marla Schaffel (Group 19) and Michael Hayden (Group 21) then led a group of current students in a selection of songs that were both amusing and touching. Over 100 people turned out to reminisce, wish Harold well, and thank him for his 27 years of service to Juilliard.
The series of alumni events concluded on May 23 when music alumni met in Morse Hall for an informative panel discussion providing an overview of Juilliard today and the challenges and issues facing the School as it strives to prepare students for careers in the arts. Joining President Joseph Polisi were panelists Stephen Clapp (MS ’65, violin), dean; Cynthia Hoffmann, chair of the Vocal Arts Department; and Victor Goines, director of Jazz Studies. Following the presentation, alumni and their guests adjourned to the Marble Lobby for an elegant buffet dinner and further conversation.
As the commencement ceremonies concluded on May 25, the members of the graduating class joined the ranks of Juilliard alumni. They will be a welcome addition to future alumni events.
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