URI Reschedules 2020 Commencement For Fall 2021

KINGSTON, RI — Students who graduated from the University of Rhode Island last year will finally have their chance to walk across the stage. An in-person commencement ceremony will be held at the Ryan Center Oct. 1.

In-person commencement ceremonies were canceled across the country last spring after the coronavirus pandemic made large, in-person events impossible. URI was able to hold commencement exercises for the class of 2021 during the usual weekend in May.

Last spring, the university sent a survey to graduating seniors, who overwhelmingly said they would like the opportunity to have an in-person commencement at a later date, URI officials said. All graduates will receive an email with registration details.

"The University is looking forward with great enthusiasm to welcoming back its 2020 graduates to these unique ceremonies during this great weekend of Rhody Pride," the university said in a statement. "We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to celebrate the Class of 2020’s accomplishments and perseverance during in-person ceremonies."