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YOUNGSTOWN -- Youngstown State University has announced more detailed plans for in-person commencement ceremonies this spring, including a belated graduation celebration for the Class of 2020.
"With cases of COVID-19 on the decline and the rapid expansion of vaccinations, we are thrilled to have the opportunity to once again gather together to recognize and celebrate the achievements of our graduates," YSU President Jim Tressel said.
The ceremonies will take place at Stambaugh Stadium and are open to graduates, family and friends. No tickets are required. The university emphasized that all pandemic protocols, such as masks and social distancing, will still be in place at the stadium.
"The safety of all graduates and guests is our top priority," Tressel added.
The ceremonies will be:
• 6 p.m. Friday, May 7. All Spring 2020, Summer 2020 and Fall 2020 graduates are invited back to campus for an in-person commencement celebration at Stambaugh Stadium. All 2020 commencements were held virtually and not in person due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2020 graduates are asked to RSVP online.
• Saturday, May 8. Spring 2021 graduation also will be held in person that Saturday at Stambaugh Stadium. Graduates are asked to RSVP online.
At 9 a.m., a ceremony will be held for graduates of the Cliffe College of Creative Arts; College of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics; and the Williamson College of Business Administration.
At 3 p.m., commencement will be held for students from the Beeghly College of Liberal Arts, Social Sciences and Education; and the Bitonte College of Health and Human Services.
Scheduling of the events comes after Gov. Mike DeWine announced late last month that in-person graduation ceremonies would be permitted this spring. The ceremonies are also being planned in conjunction with local health departments.
In a letter to graduates, however, Tressel cautioned that plans for in-person commencement could be altered at any time depending on the course of the virus. "We will keep you updated on any changes," he said.
Guests will be seated socially-distanced in the west side stands of the stadium. Free parking will be available in all campus lots.
For more information and updates, visit the YSU Commencement page.
"You have shown great perseverance in the face of tremendous challenges over the course of the past several months," Tressel said in a message to all graduates. "Your determination is an inspiration to us all, and we are excited to be able to get together in-person to recognize your accomplishments."
Kent State University's main campus is having in-person ceremonies May 10-21, according to its website. Each college will have its own ceremony on different days.
The Trumbull campus has not finalized plans yet, according to Bill Burgess, marketing coordinator for Kent State at Trumbull.
"We just found out Wednesday that we will be able to have in-person graduation," Burgess said. "The regional deans are meeting to discuss options, and we will release those details as soon as we can."