Graduation goes to church

As the state legislature debates further budget cuts to the UNC system, the cuts already in place are being felt in an unexpected place — the communication studies commencement ceremony.

Previously, the department spent $1,900 to hold commencement in Carmichael Arena, said Lawrence Grossberg, the department’s interim chairman.

But this year the department is holding the ceremony in the University United Methodist Church, which will only charge about $300 in custodial costs, he said.

“The University and the departments in it are not well off,” Grossman said.

“Maybe there are some departments that are, but my department is not. We just don’t have close to $2,000.”

Grossman said his department chose the church because of its location just off campus on Franklin Street, its handicap parking and its ability to hold the roughly 700 people who will attend commencement.

“The church is convenient. It’s a lovely space inside with no overwhelming religious symbols,” he said.

The ceremony will take place May 7 at 5 p.m.

Nancy Davis, associate vice chancellor for University relations, said there are no legal issues with using a church.

“As long as the content of the ceremony is consistent with campus norms, then there should be no issue,” she said.

Peter Pendergrass, a senior in the department, said he is not religious but does not mind the venue.

He said he understands the department’s decision and doesn’t think it endorses any religious point of view.

“We’re not having it at the church because the department is somehow trying to force Christianity on anyone. It’s just a space,” he said.

Senior Courtney McCluney, also in the communication studies department, said she isn’t bothered by the change.

“They’re not trying to make us feel religious from being in this space,” she said.

Ed Rankus, an assistant professor in the department, said he only has one question about the change: “Are the chairs comfortable?”

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