A NOLA send-off
Bagpipers lead the Pipes and Drums of New Orleans, blowing a festive, stately sound for the academic procession at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome for Tulane University Commencement 2014 on Saturday (May 17).
The procession of platform party guests, winding its way through throngs of graduates, includes (from left) Board of Tulane chair Darryl Berger; New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees, who received a President"s Medal at the ceremony; and F.K. Day, one of three recipients of honorary degrees.
Graduates from across Tulane celebrate their special day together at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Commencement 2014 honored more than 2,800 graduates representing all 50 states and 63 countries.
Topsy Chapman sings “Do You Know What It Means to Miss New Orleans” at the Tulane Commencement ceremony on Saturday (May 17). Accompanied by the Original Liberty Jazz Band, Chapman"s song left “no dry eyes in the house,” said Darryl Berger, chair of the Board of Tulane.
Tulane President Scott Cowen is overcome with emotion while watching a video tribute to him during the commencement ceremony on Saturday (May 17). The video focuses on Cowen"s leadership after Hurricane Katrina and his role in bringing New Orleans and Tulane back after the storm. Commencement keynote speaker Wynton Marsalis, left, is at Cowen"s side.
A ceremony filled with New Orleans music makes for an especially joyous event honoring the academic achievements of the class of 2014.
Devon Walker flashes a smile as he sits with his fellow members of the graduating class. The cell and molecular biology major, who suffered a spinal injury in a 2012 football game, received special recognition by President Scott Cowen and a lengthy ovation from the grads and audience. Also on Saturday, the New Orleans Saints signed Walker to a contract, making him an official member of the NFL team.
The student a cappella group Green Envy pays tribute to President Scott Cowen by singing the tune, “House of the Rising Sun (There Is a House in New Orleans)” with original lyrics that reference “Scotty C” from “Jersey.” It was President Cowen"s final ceremony, as he steps down from the office on July 1.
Graduates in the Tulane class of 2014 celebrate New Orleansâ“style, waving handkerchiefs and second-lining, after President Scott Cowen confers their degrees.
