Last week, we sent a
survey to all CALS graduating students - we've received 77 responses to date. We’re using that feedback, along with input from student leaders and college partners, to guide our planning efforts under these ever-changing times.
Our update for today is this: CALS is developing a combination of options to celebrate our May 2020 graduates.
An in-person graduation ceremony, scheduled at a later date, is one of those options. Yet, we also have to recognize that not everyone will be able to return to campus; they deserve the same symbolic, rite of passage experience that is graduation.
Below is an outline of how the College of Agriculture & Life Sciences is planning to celebrate our May 2020 graduating students.
#1: A Dynamic, Virtual Experience
First, we’re creating a dynamic virtual experience that will be live streamed on
Friday, May 15, at 2 pm AZ time via the
CALS Facebook page. We’re debuting on Facebook specifically because we want to encourage engagement, celebration, and sharing for graduates and their guests.
Part of the experience is a video that is currently under production. The video will include all the key features of the CALS Convocation – message from the Dean, a Senior Speaker, recognition of Outstanding Seniors, and individual recognition of all students graduating.
Individual Recognition (aka Senior Profile)
The format for individual recognition is similar to the CALS Senior Profile Slide where you’re asked to submit a photo, thank you message, and your involvement. Now, however, we're also able to incorporate student-submitted videos.
The submission deadline for Senior Profile information will be Sunday, April 19 at 11:59 pm AZ time.
The submission form will be available next week. Students will be notified asap, and through this Graduation eNewsletter, when the submission form is available. In the meantime, give some thought to what you want to share and/or the thank you message you want to convey!
#2: An In-Person Ceremony Just for May 2020 Students
Next, we’re also planning an in-person CALS Graduation Convocation ceremony just for May 2020 graduates. As of now, we’ve identified Homecoming – specifically Friday, October 30 – for this in-person graduation convocation. The ceremony will include a reception that will replace the now-postponed/canceled CALS Senior Sendoff event.
It's important to note that the date of the in-person college ceremony may change depending on the University's Commencement planning. We'll share updates as details are finalized.
#3: Participate in December 2020 or May 2021 College Ceremonies
Finally, all May 2020 graduates and their guests are invited to participate in either the December 2020 or May 2021 CALS Graduation Convocation ceremonies. The dates of those to ceremonies are not yet set; we’ll share that information as it’s known.
