The day is Sunday, August 18 in the year 1968.

First Commencement held at Mattoon’s First Baptist Church (August 18, 1968): 79 graduates, mostly in the practical nursing and associate of science areas, earned the first degrees bestowed by the college. Illinois Senator Paul Simon, age 39 at the time, gave the commencement address, followed by a reception for graduates and their families immediately after the ceremony.

Mattoon Journal Gazette December 10, 1968

 

Coles County Daily Times August 13, 1968

 

Daily Times August 19, 1968

 

Mattoon Journal Gazette August 13, 1968

 

Journal Gazette August 19, 1968

 

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