Eastern to offer in-person graduation ceremony for Class of 2020

On Sunday, May 16, 2021, at 10 a.m., Eastern Connecticut State University will hold in-person Commencement Exercises for the Class of 2020. The event will take place on the Windham Technical High School athletic field, adjacent to Eastern's campus.

In May 2020, due to COVID-19 Eastern's 2020 graduation program was a virtual event streamed on YouTube. This year's in-person ceremonies will provide last year's class with an opportunity to experience a traditional Commencement.

"In spring 2020 our nation was in the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, with communities in lock down and college campuses vacated," said Eastern President Elsa Núñez. "The Class of 2020 faced many challenges a year ago - leaving campus on March 13 for the balance of the semester, finishing their senior year online, and attending a virtual graduation ceremony in lieu of a traditional in-person Commencement celebration. We want to make it up to them!"

To ensure the safety of the Class of 2020 and their guests, Eastern will be following strict social distancing protocols and other current guidelines of the CDC and Connecticut State Department of Public Health. Graduates will be limited to two (2) guests each, and tickets will be required. The May 16, 2021, ceremony will take place rain or shine.

More details on graduate and guest tickets; parking; safety precautions; and other logistics will be shared with 2020 graduates as information is available. If health conditions change, and the University is forced to rethink its decision to host an in-person graduation event for the Class of 2020, graduates and the campus community will be notified.

Written by Ed Osborn