August commencement ceremony postponed

After careful thought and consideration, the August 15 Commencement Ceremony honoring Spring and Summer graduates has been postponed. The current restrictions in place do not allow for an event of this size for graduates and their guests to safely social distance. All graduates were polled and an overwhelming majority voted they would rather delay the ceremony until December 12, 2020, should current guidance at that time allow social gatherings of this size.

The graduates received the following message from Dr. Suzanne Smith, Provost/Vice President for Academic Affairs:

Greetings Graduating Hurricanes,

I know you have all been anxiously awaiting information about the commencement ceremony scheduled for August 15, 2020. Thank you to everyone that provided feedback as to your desires for the ceremony. We heard from a lot of you, and the overwhelming majority voted that they would rather delay the ceremony until December when they can celebrate with their family and friends than to hold it as scheduled in August with no audience present. Given the current restrictions in place for social gatherings during the pandemic, and your voice, we are sad to say we are postponing our Commencement ceremony until December 12, 2020, should current guidance at that time allow social gatherings of this size.

Graduation is, and has always been, my favorite day on campus each year. The excitement you show as you walk across the stage is contagious, and the pride that emanates from the stands as your loved ones cheer you on is palatable. I know a delay in celebrating this important milestone is disappointing. We are incredibly proud of you and the hard work you have done to reach this point, and know you are going to do, and are already doing, great things with your degree.

We appreciate your patience and understanding as we made this difficult decision, and look forward to celebrating with you when we are able. You will hear from us again next week with more details about how to take care of the orders you have in place for your regalia. Feel free to reach out with any questions you have as well.

Until we are together again, stay safe and healthy-

Suzanne