The president of the University of the Incarnate Word issued an apology Monday to students and families who were subjected to a cold and rainy commencement ceremony at Benson Stadium.
"I take full responsibility for not having a better back-up rain-plan in place," Lou Agnese said in a prepared release. "We're very sorry for what happened. I personally apologize to all the graduates and their families for the decision to hold an outdoor graduation under such adverse weather conditions. I understand the significance of what should be a very special occasion. While we can't re-do graduation, I want to ensure the community that steps are being taken to make certain something like this doesn't happen again."
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Agnese plans to send each graduate a personal letter of apology.
He will also host a special reception in January for the graduates to enable them to celebrate with their families and UIW faculty and administrators. At the reception, UIW will provide a photo opportunity for the graduates to retake their graduation photos and will provide them a free photo.
In addition, each student who had registered to graduate on Saturday will receive a $60 MasterCard gift card.