Even though Dean Steven Ott requested that the audience remain seated until all graduates received their diplomas, following each graduate there was a mass exodus by families and friends who showed little concern for anyone but themselves. Those who went first (Ph.D.s and masters) and their families were noticeably absent midway through as the witnesses in attendance became few. To make matters worse, the last several graduates weren't even announced due to a microphone malfunction. It probably didn't matter, since it was difficult to hear over the crying and complaining small children, who shouldn't have been there in the first place.

Here's a suggestion, University of Utah, for next year's graduation: Reseat the graduates after they have received their diplomas and had their pictures taken. Maybe then, their boorish, impolite parents and friends will stay, too, and honor all the graduates.

Sharon Narus

Tucson, Ariz.