New York Times Columnist Thomas Friedman, Nobel Laureate Walter Gilbert, Stevie Wonder, Cokie Roberts and More Salute Tulane University Graduates

WHAT: Tulane University"s 2011 Commencement

WHO: Approximately 2,300 Tulane graduates, their families and friends joined by keynote speaker Thomas Friedman, honorary degree recipients Cokie Roberts, Stevie Wonder and Nobel Laureate Walter Gilbert. Other highlights include a full academic procession led by gonfalon-bearing graduates; herald trumpets; performances by Dr. Michael White"s Original Liberty Jazz Band and singer Wanda Rouzan; confetti cannon blasts; a traditional New Orleans second-line parade and more.

WHERE: New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, Section I-2 and J.

WHEN: 4 p.m., Thursday, May 12 followed by Wave Goodbye, a party for graduates and their families given by President and Mrs. Cowen, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., at Mardi Gras World. Wave Goodbye will feature great New Orleans food, along with musical performances by Shamarr Allen and Johnny Angel & the Swinging Demons.