COVID-19 is not stopping the Neumann Knights from an in-person graduation ceremony this year. The Class of 2021 will be able to swing their tassels and raise their caps with their family and friends. The Class of 2020 is also joining in on the fun and making up for the graduation they should have had last year.
Oddly enough six graduations will be happening at Neumann University. Three ceremonies will happen on Saturday, May 15 and three ceremonies will happen will take place on May 16. On both days, all three ceremonies will be at 10 a.m., 1 p.m., and 4 p.m.
And what about the valedictorians? For graduating classes, the speeches will be delivered via video recording, according to Vice President for Academic Affairs Larry DiPaolo.
Six ceremonies was a lot to plan. “Making sure all the logistical challenges are met” was DiPaolo’s main concern for a successful graduation. At each ceremony, 200 guests and 80 to 100 students are allowed.
The ceremonies will be as traditional as possible. There will be music and speeches along with some recordings. To have these ceremonies the University must do what the state of Pennsylvania requires for outdoor gatherings. Therefore, social distancing will be practiced at all six graduations.
Seating is limited because of the virus. A total of 340 people will be able to be under the tent. Each student can bring two guests. There will be no tickets and no reservations. Each student must fill out the health form and simply show up with their guests. Students have received emails about which ceremony they have to attend.
The highlight of the graduation is the guest speaker. The Irish Ambassador to the United States, Daniel Mulhall and his wife will be speaking at the Saturday graduation on May 15 at 1 p.m. University President Chris Domes will be the commencement speaker at all the other graduations.