As Every Year, Harvard Yard Gets Commencement Face Lift

Each year, as the beginning of June approaches, Harvard Yard gets a face lift. This year, as the University prepares to host Commencement exercises on June 6, is no exception.

Preparations started as early as May 16, according to Thomas A. Hall, who is from ISS Energy Services and is helping set up for Commencement.

Most people involved in Commencement are from within the Harvard community, although some are hired from local companies to help prepare the Yard for some 30,000 people involved in the coming ceremonies.

"Not too many people have been hired from outside," says Hall. "Mostly students have been hired."

Hall said about 22,000 chairs will be distributed from Memorial Church to the Widener steps and Pusey Library. Chairs will also be put in the Old Yard and in front of Matthews Hall.

In Case of Rain

In case of rain, the huge tent bought during Harvard's 350th birthday will do part of the job. But if the rain is too aggressive, and people seek shelter, there will be large screen televisions in the Science Center and Memorial Hall, where the exercises can be watched live.

Hall added that there will be television coverage by WGBH, and there will also be some "cable outfit."

According to University Marshall Richard M. Hunt, "a little less than 10" dignitaries are receiving honorary degrees. The dignitaries constitute a "broad list of national and international" personalities, he said.

"The exercises will start at "10 a.m., on the minute," Hunt added.

According to Diane Jellis, who works in the Marshall's office, approximately $100,000 is being spent for the occasion. She was unable to give a breakdown of the budget because costs are shared, items are charged and bills are split, she said.

Jellis said many areas of the University are involved in the event. "Buildings are used, electricians, painters are hired, staff, alumni, deans support and the food services are used," she said. "We order over 30,000 chairs, tables and hire 15 outside caterers."

And some students working for the occasion say Commencement provides some quick employment before the summer begins. Says Mario Mancuso '91, "If I did not get this job, I would not be working."

Steven Y. Quintero '91 added, "actually we don't do anything."