Members of Cornell's Class of 2008 and master's degree and Ph.D. candidates who completed their studies midyear donned caps and gowns at the university's December Recognition Ceremony for January Graduates, held Dec. 15 in Barton Hall.

It was the fifth annual occurrence of the formal recognition ceremony, also known as Winter Commencement.

Cornell President David Skorton, Provost Carolyn (Biddy) Martin and current Senior Class President Vincent Hartman '08 delivered brief remarks to the graduates after a call to order by University Marshal (and Dean of the Faculty) Charles Walcott.

"This is surely the next great adventure, and I urge you on not with caution -- but audacity and courage," Hartman said. "Stay curious and champion that which you believe, and your future will be kind to you. Face anything in any weather, as Cornell has no doubt taught us to do."

Hartman, an economics and government major in the College of Arts and Sciences slated to graduate in May, also will speak at Senior Convocation in May before he enters the Peace Corps. January graduates are also welcome to attend and participate in the May commencement ceremony.

In her closing remarks to the January graduates, Martin said, "Let us dwell for a moment on your achievement, which is significant, and your promise, which is enormous."

The January graduates each received certificates from their respective deans, representing Cornell's seven undergraduate colleges and the Graduate School.

Barton Hall's floor seating and bleachers were filled with family members, friends and classmates who applauded and cheered when individual graduates' names were called during the ceremony.

The hour-long ceremony also featured music by Ithaca Brass during the academic procession and recessional. The event was followed by a reception in Barton Hall.

Informal receptions and breakfasts were also held for graduates on Dec. 14 and 15 in individual colleges, including the Colleges of Human Ecology and of Agriculture and Life Sciences, the ILR School and School of Hotel Administration.