Tuesday, April 14, 2020 1 p.m. - Spring Graduates

Spring Commencement Update - Spring Graduates

Dear Spring Graduates,

As you know, Kent State University is postponing all in-person Spring Commencement ceremonies and pre-commencement celebrations in accordance with Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine’s order to prohibit large gatherings due to COVID-19. We know how much commencement means to our entire university community, and we are pleased to announce that we will recognize your accomplishments with a virtual commencement recognition ceremony this spring. This does not replace the in-person commencement ceremony. All students who graduate this semester will be invited back to campus for commencement when it is deemed safe to do so.

Kent State students, faculty, staff, parents and friends are invited to tune into the virtual ceremony on Saturday, May 9, at 11 a.m. EDT at www.kent.edu/commencement. During the virtual ceremony, you will hear from Kent State President Todd Diacon, Interim Senior Vice President and Provost Melody Tankersley, and college and campus deans. Each of you will receive individual name recognition and participate in the conferral of your degree.

Kent State will also host the College of Podiatric Medicine, Karamu Ya Wahitimu/Celebración de los Graduados and Lavender Graduation virtually. More information regarding these ceremonies is forthcoming.

Please log in to FlashLine to complete your ceremony RSVP by Thursday, April 16, to confirm your participation. All students who RSVP to participate in commencement will receive a commencement package so that you are ready to go on commencement day. These packages will include a copy of the commencement program, mortar board, tassel, alumni pin, diploma cover, honors cords for eligible graduates and hoods for doctoral graduates.

Additionally, please review your permanent mailing address in FlashLine to ensure you receive your commencement care package.

Details on ceremony participation, diploma mailings and more can be found by visiting www.kent.edu/commencement.

We all look forward to when we can come together and recognize you in person. Until then, we encourage you, along with your family and friends, to participate in the virtual ceremony.

Sincerely,

University Events and Protocol