This week: Fall commencement will see nearly 900 students graduate, a professor hosts a discussion on Augusta’s economy, and AU lights up for the season with tree-lighting festivities.

Annual tree lighting is Dec. 7

Augusta University and the Summerville Neighborhood Association are hosting the Lighting of the Tree event at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 7 in front of the Maxwell Theatre.

The festivities include photos with Santa, caroling, holiday crafts, food trucks and refreshments. Guests are invited to bring non-perishable food items to donate to the Open Paws Student Food Pantry.

Looking at Augusta’s economic future 

The 14th annual Economic Forecast Breakfast will be held at 7:30 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 9 in the Jaguar Student Activities Center’s Dr. Roscoe Williams Ballroom. Simon Medcalfe, Cree-Walker Chair and professor of economics in the Hull College of Business, will share his analysis of Augusta’s economy.

“With record job openings and record numbers of workers quitting their jobs, soaring prices, and supply chain issues that mean I cannot find frozen peas at Lidl, is this the new normal? And if so, what vegetable will I have with shepherd’s pie?” Medcalfe said.

Medcalfe is the author of the Augusta Leading Economic Index, a monthly composite index that combines several national, regional and local indicators into a single variable.

A big day ahead for many AU students

Fall commencement is set for 2 p.m. Dec. 10 at the James Brown Arena.

“After what has been a truly unprecedented year, your class has overcome countless changes and challenges with compassion, integrity and leadership – making you true Augusta University Jaguars,” said President Brooks A. Keel, PhD. There will be around 900 graduates earning their degrees in over 50 majors.

Interview opportunities are available for these story ideas. Call 706-522-3023 to schedule an interview. Check out the Augusta University Expert Center to view our list of experts who can help with story ideas.