FAU‘s administration is holding a party with corn dogs and cotton candy – and only graduating students are invited.

Why are they starting a new tradition?

“Because it’s a way of saying congratulations to our graduates,” says Debra Kain, special assistant to the provost. “We wanted to make graduates’ final experience at FAU a fun, positive event.”

The six hour long event is scheduled for Thursday, March 14 from 1 to 7 p.m. in the Grand Palm Room on the Boca Raton Campus. In upcoming semesters, the goal is to have a graduation celebration on every campus.

But rather than holding the event after graduation, they scheduled the event as a pre-celebration. The reason behind that has to do with convenience. It’s what Kain calls, “One-stop shopping for all your graduation needs.”

What you can do at the event is: Purchase your cap and gown on the spot, order class rings and announcements, make hotel arrangements for out-of-town guests, or have your picture taken with the FAU Fighting Owl mascot or with your friends. Information will also be available for FAU Graduate School and Continuing Ed, GRE and GMAT questions answered. Plus there will be information on how to join the FAU National Alumni Association.

Kain also says that the Coca-Cola “Street Team,” who will provide live entertainment along with pre-recorded music, games, etc. That event will be held north of the University Center from 1 to 3 p.m.

The free food on hand will be corn dogs, popcorn, snow cones, cotton candy, and more. There will also be other goodies including door prizes, football tickets, other special discount offers.

Student Body President Mukkarum Mawjood is happy that there will be event to honor graduating students. He said Student Government allocated $2500 for the event.