The School of Law’s Grand Courtroom has been home to many events, from prominent speakers to heated debates. But few have been as humorous as the most recent: a roast.

Laughter filled the Grand Courtroom on Thursday night as about 40 students came to share stories about now-alumnus, Mark A. Knapp Jr.

Knapp recently learned he is eligible to receive his bachelor’s degree in health and science studies, and will no longer attend Quinnipiac as a student.

“A regular goodbye just doesn’t do it,” senior James Lipscomb, the “roastmaster” and event organizer, said. “I wanted to send him out on a good note.”

The roast – a classic event hearkening back to the days of Dean Martin’s variety show, or seen more recently the last few years on Comedy Central’s annual roast, is an event where an individual is subjected to a public presentation of comedic insults, praise and stories provided by friends and family.

“It’s the most honorable disrespect you can give someone,” senior Jon Leach said.

“It was really enjoyable,” Knapp added.

Stories of Knapp’s years as a resident assistant and executive producer for Q30’s “Bobcat Blitz” filled the room.

“He’s the only health science major who has been an executive producer for Q30,” senior Jamie Schafer said with a smirk.

Schafer said she wants a roast for the entire senior class.

“We all have hilarious stories,” she said.

But a sullen undertone was also present as friends reminisced about the years they have spent with Knapp.

Lipscomb and Knapp have been friends for four years. “They’re Quinnipiac’s Chuck and Larry,” senior Ramon Sanchez said.

“I really care about that little rascal,” Lipscomb said.

And as everyone walked out, Knapp left with this: “I’m going to miss this place.”

Photo credit: Lenny Neslin