To graduating students, their families and the campus community:
Commencement is a significant milestone, one that’s important to graduates and their families alike. After listening to our graduating students about their desire to mark the occasion, we have reviewed safe alternatives to a virtual-only ceremony. I am happy to announce an addition to our plans for Spring Commencement.
On Saturday, May 8, we will host multiple in-person Spring Commencement events at Memorial Stadium for graduates who wish to be recognized at an in-person ceremony. These ceremonies will be held rain or shine with limited officials and guest speakers, and will be livestreamed. The in-person events will differ from traditional commencement ceremonies; they are intended to honor our graduates and their families, while adhering to COVID-19 safety protocol.
The number of students who plan to participate in person will inform the size of the ceremonies. At the recommendation of our public health partners, we expect to strictly limit guests to two people per graduate. Importantly:
- Commencement will be held outside, rain or shine.
- Please prepare and dress with the weather in mind.
- Masks and physical distancing will be required.
- Should health and safety guidelines change, our plans may change accordingly.
Additional information regarding ASN and BSN 4-year nurse pinning ceremonies will be released.
Also May 8, we will launch pre-recorded ceremonial videos that feature the full commencement ceremony with all of the speakers and recognition of all graduates. As with previous virtual commencements, we will ask graduates to submit a photo and be recognized in the video production.
Specific information regarding the commencement ceremonies will be released soon.
I urge you to check your email and visit our commencement webpage for the latest.
While this commencement will be different, I am thrilled to celebrate our graduating
students' accomplishments.
Wings Up!
Dr. Dale