Graceland’s October and December Commencements Will Be Virtual, Graduates Invited to Next In-Person Graduation

Out of an abundance of caution, Graceland University has decided to cancel the rescheduled Spring 2020 commencement ceremony planned for Oct. 3. After consulting with local and state health officials, reviewing the CDC guidelines on gatherings, and considering the risk to current students, the university will move toward a virtual commencement for this rescheduled ceremony.

“I am heartbroken to make this decision for such outstanding graduates who have endured so much already, but I know it’s the right one for them, their families and Graceland,” said Graceland’s president Patricia H. Draves.

Graceland has also decided to hold a virtual ceremony for the commencement that was scheduled for December 2020 in Independence, Missouri.

Students who were scheduled to participate in either of these events will be invited to return and walk across the stage at one of the next two in-person commencement exercises Graceland hosts. 

“Earning your degree is a pivotal accomplishment in one’s life,” said Draves in her email to graduates. “We want to ensure that accomplishment is honored for the students who have worked so hard during their years at Graceland.”

Graduates will be sent more details on the virtual events in the coming weeks.