Winter Commencement 2009

This December, some 700 students are eligible for graduation from the University of Idaho. Winter Commencement will take place Saturday, Dec. 12, at 12:30 p.m., in the ASUI-Kibbie Activity Center. The event is free and open to the public.

All degree candidates, dressed in their regalia, will line up for the procession on Saturday morning by 11:30 a.m. on the main floor of the Kibbie Dome's east end.

The commencement address will be given by John S. "Jack" Morris, dean of the College of Business and Economics.

Morris began his distinguished career at the University of Idaho in 1973 as an assistant professor in the Center for Native American Development. He joined the College of Business and Economics in 1980 as an assistant professor of Production / Operations Management. He served as the area coordinator until his appointment as associate dean in 2001.

Morris also has been involved in several curriculum development projects that included the college’s award-winning Integrated Business Curriculum and the university’s entrepreneurship initiative. He has served as dean in the College of Business and Economics since 2006.

His research interests include the use of computer simulation to investigate the impact of new technologies for world-class manufacturing including cellular manufacturing and computer-integrated manufacturing. His work in cellular manufacturing has received special recognition at meetings of the Production and Operations Management Society and the Decision Sciences Institute. He has served as a reviewer for several leading journals and professional societies.

Morris received his doctorate from the University of Oklahoma with a major in production and operations management and a minor in industrial engineering. He has an MBA and bachelor’s degree from the University of Rochester.

Recognition for his teaching includes four Alumni Awards for Excellence, the First Interstate Bank Student Excellence Award, the ASUI Outstanding Faculty Award and the Burlington Northern Teaching Award. Morris also received A.D. Davis fellowships in 1992 and 1998 and the College of Natural Resources’ Bridge Builder Award.

Immediately after the ceremony, the President's Reception will take place on the main floor of the ASUI-Kibbie Activity Center. Family, friends and faculty are invited to enjoy refreshments with university President M. Duane Nellis, Mrs. Ruthie Nellis and the new graduates. College banners will designate gathering areas and provide photo opportunities.

Streaming video will be available from the site for those unable to attend the ceremony in person.