2021 Commencement Scheduled for Sunday, May 23

Dear Members of the Syracuse University Community:

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact all of us in profound ways, including how we celebrate milestones and achievements. In light of our revised academic calendar for the spring semester, which begins on Feb. 8, we have scheduled Commencement 2021 for Sunday, May 23, two weeks later than originally planned. School and college convocations will be held that weekend as well.

We want nothing more than to host our graduates and their loved ones in person for this significant rite of passage. However, pandemic conditions and guidelines from New York State and public health officials will continue to guide our plans and ultimately determine whether we are able to hold Commencement in person. Presently, New York State limits indoor gatherings to 10 people. If these or similar restrictions limiting public gatherings are in place in May, hosting an in-person Commencement will not be possible and would require we move to a virtual celebration.

We will move forward in planning for an in-person celebration, while also preparing for a virtual event if conditions demand. Because we know how important it is for you to be able to plan ahead, we will make and communicate a decision regarding the format of Commencement no later than April 1.

Commencement is something all college graduates look forward to with excitement and anticipation. The pandemic is forcing us, once again, to rethink how we approach this significant rite of passage. No matter the circumstances, whether in-person or virtual, we will celebrate our graduates with all the pomp and circumstance they deserve.

Sincerely,

John Liu
Interim Vice Chancellor and Provost