On March 11, the university announced the addition of in-person ceremonies for spring commencement.
The change was driven by public support for graduating students to experience an in-person commencement. The events will take place in the Arena-Auditorium on Friday, May 14 and Saturday, May 15.
There will be up to four in-person ceremonies conducted.
The ceremonies will be livestreamed, and each graduate will be given a limited number of tickets for guests. Commencement will include a program of speakers and awarding of degrees.
Safety measures including social distancing and masks will be observed. To further increase safety, the facility will be cleaned after each ceremony.
After the announcement was sent to UW students, seniors expressed their opinions on this change of plans.
“As a first-generation student to attend college, I have always dreamed of having the chance to walk across the stage and receive my diploma in front of my family and friends,” Hailey Fry, a senior in communications, said. “However, with COVID-19 still being an issue, I was shocked to learn graduation was moved to in-person.”
Lane Smith, a senior majoring in communications, also talked about whether the switch to in-person was a good decision.
“If they can do it safely, then yes,” Smith said. “But I don’t think that’s an easy task. There’s lots to account for in that scenario.”
Because of concerns around COVID-19, graduates will still have the option to participate in the ceremony virtually. There will be no processional or recessional.
Joe Melia, a senior majoring in general studies with focuses in math, science and business, expressed excitement for the switch to in-person.
“I think it’s a good decision for the university because it shows they care about the students’ opinions,” Melia said. “I prefer graduating in person. I’ve worked hard for four years and I want something to show for it.”
The decision around graduation has impacted the families of graduates as well. Fry said that her family was happy to hear the news.
“Personally, my family is very excited and I’m sure the news has brought joy to many other families too,” Fry said. “I am happy the university has given individuals the opportunity to graduate in person. I hope it is a safe option, because I know how important that day will be to people.”
To read the full announcement on the switch to in-person graduation, click here.
