The day’s graduation ceremonies also marks the first “green” MSU commencement, as caps, gowns and diplomas will be made from recycled materials.

MSU’s commencement ceremonies will permanently switch to being “green” beginning this year. Caps and gowns were made using recycled plastic bottles, and diplomas will be printed with soy-based ink on recycled paper, according to a statement from MSU.

“I like that the university is trying to be green,” special education senior Amy Jo Whipe said.

“It sets a good example and sends a good message. I’m glad to be part of a graduating class that has recycled gowns and diplomas.”

Citizens Energy Corp., founded in the 1970s, works to provide low-cost or free utilities, such as electricity and gas, to the poor, according to the corporation’s Web site. The nonprofit also is working on developing green and renewable technologies, such as wind farms.

“The entire semantic approach to commencement is one that differentiates MSU, but also goes along with commencement as a day of pride, a day of commitment and a day of recognizing the heritage, tradition and excellence (of MSU),” Denbow said.

Kennedy also is known for his controversial wedding and fallout related to the Catholic church, as well as Citizens Energy Corp.’s distribution of Venzuelan oil.

Kennedy will receive an honorary doctorate of laws at the ceremony. Also slated to speak is Daniel Nocera, a professor of energy at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, who will speak at the Advanced Degree commencement ceremony that evening.