Famous UC Alum Will Address Graduating Class of 2005

His musical, RENT, was one of the most highly acclaimed musicals in recent history, and only the fifth musical ever to be honored with a Pulitzer Prize and a Tony Award. Now, Kevin McCollum will take a little time off from Broadway and from his current smash hit, Avenue Q, to address the University of Cincinnati class of 2005 at this year's All University Commencement ceremonies. UC's Commencement takes place at 10 a.m. and 2:30 p.m, Friday, June 10, at Fifth Third Arena at Shoemaker Center.

McCollum will receive an honorary doctorate of performing arts at UC's Commencement. The famous Broadway producer graduated from the College-Conservatory of Music (CCM) in 1984 with a bachelor of fine arts degree in musical theater. He is married to Broadway actress Lynnette Perry McCollum, a 1985 graduate of CCM.

UC's Commencement ceremonies will be more intimate this year, as every graduate's name is announced and each is personally congratulated by UC President Nancy L. Zimpher. To allow the time for this more personal recognition of UC's newest graduates, Commencement will be divided into two ceremonies, one in the morning and one in the afternoon.

The UC Commencement Committee is also adding a late-fall Commencement ceremony to recognize seniors who complete their programs this summer or during fall quarter 2005. That ceremony is scheduled to take place at 1 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 10, in Fifth Third Arena at Shoemaker Center.

More information on Kevin E. McCollum