This year, for the first time, the UConn Office of Alumni Relations will distribute legacy medals to graduating seniors who have a parent, grandparent, or sibling who graduated from UConn. The medals will be worn at Commencement to honor the proud tradition of UConn families.

Students can pick up their medals with their families during open house hours at the Alumni Center (2384 Alumni Drive, near the NextGen Connecticut residence hall) prior to commencement ceremonies scheduled May 6 and 7.

“Seniors and families can come in, meet staff, have some refreshments, and get their medal,” says Jessica L. Sokol, associate director for student and young alumni engagement for the UConn Foundation. “It’s so rewarding to meet students whose family members are already part of the UConn alumni family. There are extra layers of pride and happiness that are special to see.”

The engraved, pewter medals recognize students who have made UConn part of their family tradition. The medal is restricted to current students whose parent, grandparent, or sibling is a UConn alumnus. As many as 600 students will qualify for the honor this spring.

Last fall, a new pinning ceremony was added to the annual Legacy Breakfast for families during Family Weekend. During the short ceremony, the alumni parent, grandparent, or sibling fastened a special lapel pin on the legacy student and recited an oath.

For more information on the Legacy Medals, call the Office of Alumni Relations at 860-486-2607.