November 2020

As Chair of the University Commencement Committee, I am excited to share with you that our committee has been planning, exploring, and considering options for your Commencement 2021 Ceremony since July. During these uncertain times, still due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we must consider multiple scenarios and adhere to state and county health guidelines. We are unsure what regulations will exist come May 2021, but we want you all to know, we will be prepared.

I want to personally thank each graduate who participated in the recent Commencement 2021 survey.  Your feedback is invaluable!

Dr. Beverly Guidry

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Ceremony & Celebrations

When will we know if the event is in-person or virtual?

University Administration is working diligently to identify several options to offer the most memorable and safe commencement ceremony for you and your families that also is in compliance with CDC guidelines and state regulations. We anticipate being able to make a decision no later than January 2021 on whether we will be able to host an in-person event, a hybrid event or a completely virtual event.  

The ceremony is not possible, but will there be a printed program?

In collaboration with University Publications, we are planning to produce a printed and digital program, as we typically do, to memorialize Commencement 2021. Programs will be mailed to each graduate if needed. 

Diploma, Cap & Gown, Honors

How soon will my diploma be ready?

This depends on your program. Diplomas cannot be released until the Registrar’s Office confirms that all graduation requirements have been met. Oath administration, for specific colleges, is usually done during the commencement ceremony is a graduation requirement.  

How will graduates receive their cap, gown, and hood?

Your regalia (cap/tam, gown and hood) is ordered from Jostens and will be shipped directly to you. In January you will be required to complete a graduate participation form, and upon completion of this form you’ll be prompted to order your regalia. The cost of your regalia is covered in your graduate fee but you will need to pay Jostens for shipping (approximately $13.00)

Graduate Fee

Will students receive a refund of the $350 graduate fee?

No decisions have been made on refunds yet. However, we will let you know as information is made available to us.