The annual Commencement exhibit marks the tradition of exercises for graduates of the College of William and Mary first held in 1700 and the awarding of honorary degrees. Honorary degrees were granted by the College sporadically through the mid-19th century before becoming a regular campus tradition and eventually awarded annually since the early 20th century. William and Mary alumni Linda Lavin, a renowned theater and television actress and a member of the Class of 1959, and Sherman Cohen, a philanthropist and one of the most successful real estate developers in the United States, and broadcaster Tom Brokaw will receive honorary degrees at the 2009 commencement ceremony. Brokaw will deliver the commencement address. The exhibit case is located in the lobby area.

Curator: Jeffreen Hayes, Graduate Student Apprentice; Exhibit design and installation: Chandi Singer, Burger Archives Assistant.