UNC Delays Spring Commencement Ceremony Due to Coronavirus
April 10, 2020
University of Northern Colorado President Andy Feinstein announced today in an email to students, faculty, and staff that Spring 2020 Commencement will be moved to the weekend of December 11-13.
A decision was made in late March to delay spring ceremonies in accordance with state and Centers for Disease Control social distancing guidelines and gather student feedback to pursue alternatives for recognizing students’ achievement.
“I know from your messages to me that this was devastating news for many of you,” Feinstein said in his email to students. “I hope you know that having to make this decision was heartbreaking for me and my team, too.”
Feinstein and his cabinet have been reviewing alternatives based on feedback provided by students from a survey the university circulated, emails sent to administration, and posts on social media.
Feinstein
“After hearing from you, we have decided to host a separate and distinct set of Commencement activities and ceremonies,” Feinstein said. “We are planning to host these graduation activities the same weekend as our fall 2020 ceremonies — the weekend of December 11-13, but I want to be clear that the ceremonies will not be combined.
“The resilient, formidable members of UNC’s spring 2020 graduating class will have their own time to shine. Those who are unable to attend in December will be invited to join us for Spring Commencement in May 2021.”
Feinstein commended students for the “hard work, persistence, and courage” they have shown.
“Although your Commencement ceremony will be delayed, do not lose sight of the fact that in just a few short weeks you will have achieved the goal that brought you to UNC,” he said.
Feinstein added: “I also cannot wait to celebrate you in December—to shake your hand as your name is called and you cross the stage.”
