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The University of Vermont announced Tuesday that it will hold an in-person commencement for its current seniors. The university plans to schedule a date for the ceremony in August.
President Suresh Garimella sent an email to graduating students and their parents Tuesday citing a survey of graduates showing that they prefer an in-person ceremony.
“But due to COVID-19, an in-person ceremony is not possible right now, and likely not possible this summer,” he wrote. “In the first week of August, after we have a better sense of how things are progressing here and across the country, we will send details on the timing of your rescheduled Commencement ceremony.”
The university went remote in the middle of March asking students not to return to campus after spring break to limit the spread of the coronavirus.
A group of students sued the university earlier this month demanding the university provide reimbursements for services not offered to students since the university has gone remote. The university is offering a $1,000 housing credit and a prorated credit for meal plans.
Commencement was originally scheduled for May 17. Degrees will be officially conferred as planned on that date, and a celebration for the class will be held online that day as well.
“You and your classmates have overcome challenges few would have expected even just a few months ago,” Garimella said in his email. “In so doing, you have shown a strength and determination that makes us all proud. We look forward to honoring you.”
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