Wheaton's thesis parade spoofs pomp and circumstance

In sharp contrast to the quiet dignity of Wheaton's May 22 commencement exercises, faculty and graduating seniors will spoof academia's most solemn ritual on Monday, May 17, with the off-beat pomp and circumstance that is quickly becoming a new Wheaton tradition: the thesis parade.

Marching and riding on riding mowers, golf carts tractors and little red wagons, the college's 2004 thesis students and their advising faculty will process from the Science Center around the Dimple to the Registrar's office to deliver the final, bound copies of their theses. Wearing a motley assortment of academic regalia, wigs, costumes and hats, the group will be accompanied by the strains of the ''March of the Acid-Free Paper,'' an original composition written expressly for the event and performed by parade participants.

Members of the college community line the parade route, tossing flower petals and blowing noisemakers in celebration of the successful completion of the rigorous academic experience. The Thesis Parade Planning Committee is anchored by (self-appointed co-chairs) Professor of Biology Betsey Dyer and Associate Professor of Mathematics Bill Goldbloom Bloch. Professor of Physics John Collins serves as chair of music procurement, while Physical Plant Supervisor John Mitchell chairs the golf cart subcommittee.

Wheaton's annual thesis parade kicks off promptly at 11:45 a.m. on Monday, May 17, with best viewing in the college green, known as the Dimple.

For more information, please contact Anna Fitzgerald in the Office of Communications at 508-286-8235.