Quinnipiac To Hold In-Person Commencement Ceremonies

HAMDEN, CT — With improvements in coronavirus case rates in the community, Quinnipiac University plans on holding outdoor in-person commencement ceremonies for both the Class of 2020 and Class of 2021 in May, officials announced Wednesday.

“All of us – graduating students, their families, our faculty and staff – have always preferred an in-person ceremony, with guests,” Quinnipiac University President Judy Olian wrote in a message to the school community. “Now, with improvements in the community COVID rates and changes in State of Connecticut guidelines, we are able to do so.

“I am delighted to announce that we will hold the Class of 2021 Commencement ceremonies outside, on the Quad of the Mount Carmel Campus, and allow each graduate to invite up to two guests.”

Olian said the 2021 commencement ceremonies will be held from May 8 to May 11, while the 2020 ceremonies will take place May 15 and May 16. The 2020 ceremonies were postponed last year because of the pandemic.

Olian noted that the plans are predicated on current Connecticut health guidelines and COVID rates in the community. She said plans might need to be adjusted if health conditions decline.

Each graduating student is allowed to bring a maximum of two guests. Tickets will be needed to access the Quad, and access will be strictly limited to two guests due to health-related space restrictions, according to Quinnipiac.

Additional guests can participate remotely through a virtual streaming of the ceremony. Ceremonies will be held rain or shine outside (indoor capacity limits preclude inclusion of guests), officials said.

For more details on the 2021 Commencement ceremonies click here and visit here for the 2020 celebration.