KENT, Ohio — EDITOR'S NOTE: The video above originally aired on March 11
Millions of college students across the country had it stolen from them last year. Now, with America slowly getting back to normal, commencement ceremonies are returning as well.
That will be the case this May 10 at Kent State University, when the school will hold an in-person commencement for the graduating class of 2021. Although health measures such as mask wearing and social distancing will be in place because of the COVID-19 pandemic, all eligible students on are welcome to attend with up to four invited guests.
"Congratulations for your perseverance in completing your studies during such an overwhelming time in history," KSU President Dr. Todd Diacon said in a statement to seniors. "This is an awesome accomplishment, especially in light of the challenges that you faced. We are extremely proud of you."
In addition, the university is honoring its pledge to allow the class of 2020 to walk across the stage after their was commencement was scrapped due to health concerns. While details are pending, that ceremony is expected to take place during the fall 2021 homecoming weekend.
Although the main event will be in-person, Kent State will also host a virtual commencement on May 15. The College of Podiatric Medicine will also have its own ceremony on May 21, while special events such as Karamu Ya Wahitimu/Celebración de los Graduados and Lavender Graduation will be held virtually again this year.
Those wishing to attend the in-person commencement must RSVP by April 8. The ceremony will take place on the Centennial Court Green on Midway Drive. Further details can be found here.
More local commencements:
- Ohio State plans to hold 2021 spring commencement in-person at Ohio Stadium
- University of Akron announces in-person commencement plans for spring
- Cleveland State University to hold in-person commencement at Progressive Field on May 15
- Youngstown State to hold in-person commencement ceremonies for 2020, 2021 graduates this May
- Ohio University announces plans to move forward with in-person spring commencement, will host multiple ceremonies over a period of several days