Rising above all

JAMM AQUINO / JAQUINO@STARBULLETIN.COM
Kermit the Frog seemed to have a jolly time bathing in the morning sun on top of University of Hawaii student Dusty Behner's graduation cap yesterday prior to commencement exercises. Behner, who graduated with a bachelor's degree in theater, says of Kermit and the university's new graduating colors that, "It's not easy being green." Green robes replaced the black that had been the standard in past years.

JAMM AQUINO / JAQUINO@STARBULLETIN.COM
From left, dance majors Ayako Utahara, Meghan Leisher and Anna Francis were overjoyed after receiving their diplomas. Yesterday's ceremony took place in the Stan Sheriff Center.

JAMM AQUINO / JAQUINO@STARBULLETIN.COM
Communications student Angela Nacnac smiled as professor Amy Hubbard fixed her cap for her moments before receiving her diploma. Nacnac minored in speech.

JAMM AQUINO / JAQUINO@STARBULLETIN.COM
Biotechnology major Karen Marie Warner, at left, waved to loved ones in the crowd before receiving her diploma. In addition to the new robe color, this year's ceremony featured new processional music for the entering graduates played by the University of Hawaii Marching Band. The music, "Above All Nations," was composed by UH-Manoa professor Donald Womack. The title is taken from the university's motto, "Above all nations is humanity."