Approximately 700 students are expected to participate in UNLV's Winter Commencement ceremony on Dec. 1.

The event, which is open to the public, will take place at 9 a.m. at the Thomas & Mack Center. Because of extra security measures, persons attending the ceremony are advised to arrive at least one hour prior to the event's starting time.

Students participating in the graduation ceremony will now enter the Thomas & Mack Center through the Cox Pavilion tunnel, located on the east corner of the building.

Among those who will be honored at commencement is James Bilbray, an attorney with the law firm of Kummer Kaempfer Bonner & Renshaw, who served as Nevada's U.S. representative from 1987 to 1995. He will be awarded the honorary doctor of laws degree.

Also being honored are U.S. Rep. Shelley Berkley and local attorney and university benefactor Jay H. Brown; both will receive the President's Medal.

A reception will be held on the concourse of the Thomas & Mack Center following the ceremony.

For additional information, call the commencement hotline at 895-3229.