Jon Roberts '07 made his way around the inner circle lighting candles during SUNY Oswego's annual Torchlight ceremony.

“Let us lift our glass in tribute,” Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Susan Coultrap-McQuin said, offering a toast to the class of 2007 during SUNY Oswego’s annual Commencement Eve Dinner, May 18.

“May you carry with you memories of the special people of this special place,” Coultrap-McQuin said, addressing the crowd of 370 graduating seniors, their families, alumni, faculty, staff and friends who attended this year’s Torchlight tradition. “Professors that greeted you…and friends that will remain friends for the rest of your life…the incredible sunsets…the snows…the confidence that you have the knowledge and skills for a successful and meaningful life.

“We share your joy, anticipate your great success and wait for your return to SUNY Oswego,” she said.

Also, as part of the evening’s events, Jon Roberts ’07 and Maggie Dolly '07 presented SUNY Oswego with a gift from the class of 2007.

This year, the class of 2007 chose to raise funds for the new Campus Center by sponsoring a garden in front of the building. Through senior T-shirt sales, a senior class telethon and various mailers the class raised $5,750.28, a total that has more than doubled what past years have raised.

“On behalf of SUNY Oswego, your gift will make a difference,” Coultrap-McQuin said.

The festivities continued in Sheldon Park with the Senior Sing featuring StateSingers and the Oswego State Jazz Ensemble. Then the beloved traditional Torchlight Ceremony, which featured special guest Lt. John McLoughlin ’75 as master of ceremonies, welcomed seniors into the Oswego Alumni Assocation.

As the evening fell dark, small glowing lights emerged as one candle after another was lit, each signifying the illumination of learning at SUNY Oswego.

“We, the alumni of Oswego State, dedicate its [the candle] bright burning to our memories of the light transferred from our school, through us, to others. May its glory never be dimmed,” McLoughlin said. “Ladies and gentlemen, on the eve of their commencement, please join us in welcoming into the Oswego Alumni Association, the graduating class of 2007.”

—Emily King '05