by Heather McDevitt

Before the pomp and circumstance of graduation begins, join the Lion Ambassadors in celebrating this year’s senior class. University-wide Senior Sendoff will be from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Thursday, April 23 at the Hintz Family Alumni Center.

While the event, “One Last Curtain Call for the Class That Saw It All,” celebrates seniors, all students are welcome to attend.

“This is a great way to celebrate the end of the year with your friends,” said Tara Bendler, a senior Lion Ambassador in charge of planning the event. “For a lot of students it’s really one of the last times we have with the seniors, and it’s both a thank you and farewell for their time at Penn State. Finally, this is going to be one of the largest and most dynamic events we’ve ever had. For the first time we are going to have a petting zoo, a balloon artist, inflatables, and more. It’s going to be an exciting day so I encourage everyone to come out to Senior Sendoff.”

Senior Sendoff began in 1985, when it was known as Zero Year Reunion. The tradition has grown and this year will include free food from Chick-fil-a, Wings Over, Jersey Mike’s Subs, Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, and Rita’s Italian Ice. Activities will include a petting zoo, photo booth, corn hole, hair bow making station, lots of games with prizes, balloon artists, and inflatables. There will also be live music, performances by My Hero Zero, Urban Dance Troupe, and the Preforming Magicians, along with a speech from Dr. Roger Williams, the Executive Director of the Alumni Association.

Post photos from the event on social media including #SeniorSendoff2015. Senior Sendoff is co-sponsored by UPAC.