Dean of Academics Luciano Lovallo presides over Graduation for the Class of 2014.

Every year the Dean of Academics is in charge of Xavier Graduation and all that it entails – from securing a venue to making sure all the diplomas arrive on time to correctly pronouncing every student’s last name, in addition to presiding over the ceremony itself. This week, E-News caught up with Mr. Luciano Lovallo to tell us more about how he puts together such a huge event.

E-News: When does planning for graduation begin and what does it involve?

Mr. Lovallo: It begins the day after the previous year’s ceremony. Considering last year was our first at Riverside Church there was much to review and tweak to ensure our 2014 graduates and guests have a memorable experience. It involves a ton of assistance from various administrators, faculty and staff. Ms. Eng, the HMO’s secretary, does a fabulous job helping me to manage all of the particulars and I am grateful to the administrators and faculty members that assist with the selecting of students for particular graduation awards.

E-News: Was anything particularly different or complicated in planning this year’s event?

Mr. Lovallo: Definitely the size of this year’s class makes things challenging on the invitation front. You recognize that in addition to parents there are siblings, two sets of grandparents and perhaps close aunts and uncles that deserve the opportunity to share in the experience. Unfortunately, we are limited by the Church’s size and seating regulations.

E-News: Do you worry about anything with graduation? What and why?

Mr. Lovallo: Weather … and the pronunciation of names. Growing up with a name like Luciano, I remember how upset my mother would get when people pronounced it incorrectly, or how quick she was to correct them. That’s in the back of my mind as I read off each graduate … not wanting to upset a parent, grandparent, etc. with the wrong pronunciation.

E-News: What is your favorite part of the process?

Mr. Lovallo: With the help of faculty members, working with the salutatorian and valedictorian to hone the delivery of their speeches.

E-News:: Now that graduation is done, what’s next for you?

Mr. Lovallo: The focus now shifts back to the underclassman, distributing final grades and preparing the school to welcome the class of 2018.