Senior class ring ceremony a hit

By Julie Hirshan | gargoyle@flagler.edu

Tradition. Purpose. Symbolism.

The Flagler College class ring exemplifies all of these values. At the Ring Ceremony on Nov. 15, more than 30 students gathered in the rotunda at 6 p.m. for a candle lighting ceremony and a procession to Markland House to receive their class rings.

Flagler President William T. Abare, Jr. opened the ceremony with remarks about what the Flagler College class ring stands for.

The ring means tradition. The ring ceremony has been going on at Flagler College for 10 years, as well as on other college and university campuses around the country.

The ring has a purpose. The ring serves to recognize academic achievement at Flagler College and a dedication to education.

The ring is also a reminder of the commitment students have to remain part of the college community upon graduation.

The ring is a symbol. It represents success in higher education and a willingness to stay connected with the college.

On the face of the ring is Flagler’s mascot, the rampant lion.

Kathy O’Keefe, Director of Alumni Relations, and Joe Riley, Assistant Director of Alumni Relations, organized the event.

O’Keefe graduated from Flagler in 1980, and Riley graduated in 2006.

Between ring recipients and guests, there were almost 100 total attendees. According to Riley, next year’s event will need to be moved to a bigger venue, like the Flagler Room.