Several graduates expressed their pride of accomplishment with decorations to the tops of their mortar boards. Although "hat art" during commencement is officially discouraged, it does lend a sense of irrepressible enthusiasm to the ceremony.
W. Dexter Douglass, University of Florida College of Law Distinguished Alumnus from the Class of 1955, delivered an inspiring and entertaining commencement speech, as only Dexter Douglass can.
Professor Danaya Wright, who served as one of the faculty escorts during commencement, congratulates students as they mount the dais and prepare to be hooded.
Introducing the Class of 2009
Several graduates expressed their pride of accomplishment with decorations to the tops of their mortar boards. Although "hat art" during commencement is officially discouraged, it does lend a sense of irrepressible enthusiasm to the ceremony.
Carmen Manrara beams as she returns to her seat following hooding.
Law Review Editor Larry Dougherty (right) and Kassie Doyle during the exiting processional
Associate Dean for Student Affairs Rachel Inman (on stage) gives last minute instructions to the Class of 2009 before the commencement processional. This was the college's first 400-plus student graduation ceremony, and it got off to a late start because of unforeseen organizational challenges.
William N. Spicola (right), co-chair of the Spring 2009 Class Gift Committee presents Law Alumni Council President Gary Printy (JD 82) with a class gift check made out in the amount of $118,900. This class gift set a record, exceeding the closest class gift amount by more than $40,000. 
René Allen searches the audience for the familiar faces of family and friends.
George H. Starke Jr. is congratulated by fellow UF Distinguished Alumnus Awardees Rosemary Barkett (JD 70) and W. Dexter Douglass (JD 55) following his induction. Starke made history as the first black student ever admitted to the UF when he began classes at the College of Law in 1958.
The Hon. Ben Overton (JD 52), at left, accepts his University of Florida Distinguished Alumnus Award plaque from UF Senior Associate Vice President for Development Carter Boydstun.