FAMU to host in-person ceremonies for 2021 spring graduates

Photo courtesy WFSU News

The outbreak of the COVID-19 has completely changed the country’s education system. From teacher-led protests and Zoom class sessions to graduation ceremonies being held online, the pandemic has impacted the lives of students and educators everywhere.

For the spring graduates at Florida A&M University, that nightmare is near over.

The university announced on Tuesday that they plan to hold their Spring 2021 commencement ceremony in-person.

“We look forward to celebrating this significant milestone with all of our spring 2021 graduates,” according to an email from FAMU Info.

Officials are planning six ceremonies that begin Friday, April 23 through Sunday, April 25. The Rattlers have been hosting graduation online since May of last year.

For those alumni graduating during that time period, the news is even sweeter. Officials say that they will allow them the opportunity to walk across the stage as well.

“The university will host an in-person ceremony for 2020 graduates this summer. Dates and details will be announced at a later date,” according to FAMU Info.

As the news spreads about the in-person ceremony, seniors say they are waiting anxiously for more details. Upton Fisher, a graduating Social Work student at FAMU says there is no better time than now to change the restriction.

“Now that we know that there will be an in-person ceremony, that relieves a lot of stress and tension on starting the process of sending out invites and purchasing necessities for the big day; like cap and gown especially,” said Fisher.

It is a great opportunity that the university plans to also celebrate the 2020 graduates but some alumni feel it is a little too late.

“It is considerate and all but it’s too late for that. I will just wait until I graduate from grad school for graduation,” said alumna Deja Allen.

Tyronisha Williams, a psychology graduating senior, spoke about the updates of graduation ceremonies.

“I honestly don’t think it is a good idea to hold an in-person ceremony, but if everyone followed the CDC guidelines and wore their mask & social distance, I don’t think there would be any problems,” said Williams.

FAMU says they will continue to adhere to all Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Board of Governors guidelines to ensure the health and safety of the students, parents and faculty.

More detailed information on the schedule for each college and school is imminent and will be posted on the commencement website at www.famu.edu/commencement.