Message sent to graduates on behalf of Katie Barako, Special Projects Coordinator in the President’s Office, announcing the second postponement of Commencement for the class of 2020.
Dear members of the Class of 2020 and families,
When we first announced our plans to postpone in-person Commencement in late March, we were hopeful that in the months that followed, the COVID-19 pandemic would evolve in our favor, making a ceremony on October 9 and 10 in Gettysburg possible. As we’ve partnered with health experts, collaborated with the College’s working groups, and heeded state guidance in preparation for our decision to be in residence for the fall semester, we’ve realized that it will not yet be safe to gather the large number of friends and family (more than the permitted 250 in the green phase) that we plan to welcome to campus for Commencement.
Health and safety remain our driving priority, but it does not override our commitment to celebrate your great accomplishments in the way that you deserve, in person, when the circumstances become more manageable and safe. With that in mind, we have decided to further postpone Commencement to the weekend of May 7-8, 2021. More details will be forthcoming.
We recognize that some families may have already made travel plans and hotel reservations for October, and we apologize for any inconveniences this decision may cause. Corresponding with the College’s commitment to reducing density on campus during the fall semester, we will be using hotel space to accommodate physical distancing of students. As a result of our efforts to ensure the best possible education for our students in these unusual circumstances, the Gettysburg Hotel will need to cancel all reservations in the coming weeks, including those made for October 9 and 10. The hotel will be in touch with those who made reservations to cancel.
Thank you again for your patience and understanding as we continue to carefully and thoughtfully navigate these challenging times. To our graduates, I hope your early days away from campus are going well.
Sincerely,
Katie Barako
Commencement Coordinator