Graduates encouraged to tackle crisis, grant themselves, others compassion
Across St. Louis, America and the globe, the 3,298 graduates of Washington University in St. Louis gathered in front of screens May 14-15 to watch recognition ceremonies for their schools, academic departments and affinity groups. The virtual events replaced on-campus Commencement, which was postponed for the first time in university history due to the coronavirus pandemic.Â
Honoring Commencement traditions in the era of COVID-19
From digital memory books, Class of 2020 regalia T-shirts and messages of congratulations from celebrities and athletes, Washington University in St. Louis staff found new ways to celebrate students and honor the tradition of Commencement in the era of coronavirus.
How WashU will recognize the Class of 2020
While they can never replace the exhilaration of being in a cap and gown sitting in Brookings Quadrangle surrounded by friends, family and faculty, plans are in place at Washington University in St. Louis to recognize our graduates’ important milestone through online ceremonies and celebrations.
Show your pride for the Class of 2020
Help celebrate and show your pride for the WashU Class of 2020 by visiting the Commencement website and downloading social media stickers and frames, Zoom backgrounds and printable signs.
Chancellor appoints committee to reimagine Class of 2020 recognition
With the cancellation of the May 15 Commencement ceremony due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Chancellor Andrew D. Martin has appointed a 22-member Alternate Commencement Committee to provide recommendations on how the university can appropriately recognize the Class of 2020 in an in-person gathering when it is safe to do so.