The University of Utah will allow up to two guests per graduate at its 2021 college convocation ceremonies in May.
The university has scheduled in-person, outdoor convocations for all colleges, May 5-8, at Rice-Eccles Stadium and the Red Butte Garden Amphitheater. The Schools of Dentistry and Medicine and the Colleges of Law and Pharmacy will hold their convocation ceremonies later in the month.
Members of the Class of 2020, who were not able to have in-person convocations in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, also may attend, along with two guests. Due to space and public health considerations, attendance will be limited to college faculty, the graduates themselves and a small audience of family and friends.
“We understand how difficult the past two years have been for our campus community. Our students and faculty have shown incredible patience, creativity and resilience with all the changes we have had to make to remain safe and healthy,” said Lori McDonald, vice president for Student Affairs. “Now, we are truly excited to be able to celebrate—in a small way—with our graduates and their family members. They have earned this moment.”
Each guest will be required to register for a ticket. Please watch for details over the next two weeks. Masks must be worn by all attendees and physical distancing guidelines will be followed, with seating spaced throughout the venues.
The decision to allow guests has been driven by the same principles that have guided university administrators since the COVID-19 pandemic began: protecting the health and safety of the campus community and preserving essential experiential learning for first-year students. University leaders will monitor the state of infections and vaccinations in the community, and continue to follow the guidance of the Salt Lake County Health Department and University of Utah Health epidemiologists and public health doctors.
Graduates, friends and family members who are unable to attend college convocations can tune in remotely: Both the convocation ceremonies and General Commencement will be streamed on Utah.edu/live. For a full schedule of dates and times, click here.