On the weekend of May 16 and 17, the caps and gowns once again will be donned by Baker seniors who will walk across the stage and receive that coveted diploma.

Four actual graduation ceremonies are scheduled.

The School of Professional and Graduate Studies undergraduate ceremony will take place at 1 p.m. May 16 and the graduate ceremony at 4:30 p.m.

The College of Arts and Sciences, School of Education and School of Nursing undergraduate ceremony is scheduled for 1 p.m. May 17. The SOE graduate ceremony is at 4:30 p.m. May 17. Kansas City Metro Sports personality Dave Stewart will be speaking at the undergraduate ceremony at 1 p.m.

“The president’s office works hard in setting those up,” Provost Randy Pembrook said. “It should be very interesting.”

Budget cuts will occur when it comes to the graduation festivities, but Pembrook said the cuts did not affect any major traditional parts of the services.

“We have cut about 10-15 percent of the budget relating to the ceremonies,” Pembrook said. “We’re keeping the main elements in tact.”

Pembrook said he believes graduation is one of the key days of the university calendar and gives the staff and faculty an opportunity to meet the family members of the seniors receiving diplomas.

“I think this is one of Baker’s biggest days,” he said. “It’s a chance for us to connect with those family members.”

Other festivities, including a Baccalaureate Ceremony at 9:30 a.m. May 17 and a Commencement Brunch at 10:30 a.m., are scheduled.

A reception will take place immediately following each ceremony on the lawn north of Collins Center.