IU's Student Alumni Association plans a party for the class of 2009

As the semester comes to a close after months of hard work, 2009 graduates deserve a little celebration and relaxation.

The IU Student Alumni Association is holding Senior Salute, a party for the class of 2009, from 4 to 6 p.m today in the tent behind the DeVault Alumni Center.

“We expect about 2,000 students to come,” said Alyse Vail, IU Student Alumni Association’s vice president of special events.

There will be live music by local band Dave and Rae, as well as activities such as inflatable jousting, Frisbee and cornhole.

Along with entertainment, BuffaLouie’s, Bucceto’s Smiling Teeth and Bruster’s Real Ice Cream will provide free food to hungry graduates. A raffle will offer prizes such as a certificate for free bagels for a year from Panera Bread and a free lifetime membership to the IU Alumni Association.

“I think many students will want to come for the commemorative pint glass that says ‘Class of 2009,’” Vail said. The glass will be given to the first 1,200 people to arrive.
Additionally, all students who attend can learn how to participate and connect to the school when they become alumni. 

Representatives from each of the school’s departments will stand at booths and offer advice to all graduates.

Besides graduates, notable faculty are on the guest list. IU President Michael McRobbie is scheduled to speak, and men’s basketball coach Tom Crean will be involved in a tree-planting dedication ceremony.

Two winners from the “What’s on your bucket list?” promotion will receive a hot air balloon ride into the sunset at the end of the salute with Dean of Students Dick McKaig. Contestants sent in a “bucket list,” which included 10 things each wanted to accomplish before graduation. The winners will be selected randomly.