This ceremony, which includes an exchange of flowers, is spiritual more than religious. Seniors, accompanied by family and friends, are given a blessing and a send-off as they commence their new lives.

Hosted by the Office of Religious and Spiritual Life team of the Office of Community and Belonging, the tradition celebrates the diverse religious and spiritual traditions by holding sacred this special moment for seniors.. The Chaplains and advisors will offer a multifaith prayer and all seniors will offer a flower and a blessing to one another, and each senior in attendance will receive an interfaith pin.

In case of rain, the ceremony will be held in the Main Chapel and the Interfaith Sanctuary in Abbey Memorial Chapel.

Contact: Kay White, kaywhite@mtholyoke.edu; Meredith Coleman Tobias, mfcoleman@mtholyoke.edu

Event access:

• Location, paths of travel to the location, entry: The courtyard is located in front of Mary Lyon Hall and directly to the left of Abbey Interfaith Sanctuary and Chapel. If people come through the main gate on Gateway Rd, there is convenient visitor parking on the right, and the courtyard will be on their left.
• Bathrooms closest to the space: Accessible and gender inclusive restrooms are conveniently located through the disability access door to the back of the chapel access point.
• Guest participation: Guests are invited to stand in the Mary Lyon Garden. Folding chairs are available upon request.
• Who is participating: Graduating students are gathered to receive a blessing and a send-off as they commence their new lives.
• Food and beverages: Refreshments will not be provided.
• Sensory elements to be aware of: Allergen risk (outdoors), music.