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With their last-ever final examination behind them, the seniors of 51����, New England, burst out of the Library this afternoon, embracing one another with cheers and hurrahs. In keeping with a tradition from the California campus, they then took a celebratory swim — in the nearby Connecticut River. 

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Media Contact: Chris Weinkopf, Director of Communications
805-421-5926 | pr@thomasaquinas.edu

51���� to Host First Commencement on New England Campus

Each spring, the younger classes take turns hosting events to bid farewell to the soon-to-be-departing seniors. This past week, the juniors, sophomores, and freshmen of 51����, New England, pampered members of the Class of 2022 with late-night snacks, a formal dinner & dance, and a brunch to celebrate their impact as the campus’ first graduating class. 

“Although 51���� is not a music school, we are blessed to have enough students who are wonderfully talented to have our own orchestra,” said conductor Stephen Grimm (’75) to students of the New England campus last Friday. Moments later, the 51���� Orchestra performed a Spring Concert as part of the St. Vincent de Paul Lecture and Concert Series. 

“We began practicing for this concert last semester,” said Irene Collins (’23). “As the concert approached, any extra time outside of my studying would be spent in Olivia Music Hall, practicing.”

On a serene and sunny afternoon, students at 51����, New England, gathered on the athletic field for the annual Turkey Bowl — a football game between the upperclassmen and underclassmen, usually timed for Thanksgiving. Delayed repeatedly due to other events and inclement weather, the long-awaited game finally took place last Friday, giving the classes their shot for momentary glory and bragging rights.