Southern Maine Community College is paying tribute to returning alumni, 2014 graduates and the college community during SMCC’s first Alumni Day celebration.

Organizers of the Envision SMCC Alumni Day are inviting alumni to join the graduating class of 2014, friends, faculty and staff for a day of celebration May 17.

The day begins with a 5-K road race at 8 a.m. and ends with a nighttime celebration with music, dancing and hors d’oeuvres. The day also features a children’s fun run, an alumni art exhibit, an alumni reception and more.

The event is organized by the SMCC Foundation. Proceeds benefit the Foundation, an independent, nonprofit organization that raises money in support of academic programs, classrooms and equipment, and scholarships for deserving students.

“This is a festive celebration of our returning alumni, our graduating students and our college community,” said SMCC President Ron Cantor. “When people come to SMCC, they become lifelong members of our community. This is an opportunity for alumni to stay connected to other graduates and community partners who make up the SMCC family.”

SMCC is holding its graduation ceremonies the following day, May 18, at the Cumberland County Civic Center.

To sign up for events and for more information about Alumni Day, visit www.smccME.edu/alumniday.

People can support the Foundation by calling the Foundation office at 741-5559 or through its website, www.smccME.edu/foundation.

Southern Maine Community College (SMCC) is Maine’s largest and oldest community college. Founded in 1946, SMCC offers courses at its South Portland and Brunswick campuses, at 10 community satellite locations and online. SMCC has the lowest tuition and fees in New England and offers more than 45 degree programs.