YSU plans in-person commencements for 2021 and 2020 graduates

Youngstown State University is releasing more information on plans for in-person commencement ceremonies this Spring, including a belated graduation celebration for the Class of 2020.

“With cases of COVID-19 on the decline and the rapid expansion of vaccinations, we are thrilled to have the opportunity to once again gather together to recognize and celebrate the achievements of our graduates,” YSU President Jim Tressel said.

The ceremonies will be in Stambaugh Stadium and are open to graduates, family and friends. No tickets are required. The university emphasized that all pandemic protocols, such as masks and social distancing, will be in place at the stadium. “The safety of all graduates and guests is our top priority,” Tressel added.

The ceremonies:

6 p.m. Friday, May 7. All Spring 2020, Summer 2020 and Fall 2020 graduates are invited back to campus for an in-person commencement celebration in Stambaugh Stadium. All 2020 commencements were held virtually and not in-person due to the COVID-19 pandemic. 2020 graduates are asked to RSVP online.

Saturday, May 8. Spring 2021 graduation will also be held in person at Stambaugh Stadium. Graduates are asked to RSVP online. Graduation will take place as follows:

• 9 a.m., Cliffe College of Creative Arts, College of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, Williamson College of Business Administration.
• 3 p.m., Beeghly College of Liberal Arts, Social Sciences and Education, Bitonte College of Health and Human Services.

The scheduling of the events comes after Gov. Mike DeWine announced late last month that in-person graduation ceremonies would be permitted this spring. The ceremonies are also being planned in conjunction with local health departments. In a letter to graduates, however, Tressel cautioned that plans for in-person commencement could be altered at any time depending on the course of the virus. “We will keep you updated on any changes,” he said.

Caps and gowns will be mailed soon to Spring 2021 graduates. Caps and gowns for 2020 graduates were mailed last year. All graduates should report to the north side of Stambaugh Stadium one hour prior to the start of commencement for further instructions and for ushering to the field. Guests will be seated socially-distanced in the west side stands of the stadium. Free parking is available in all campus lots.

For more information and updates, visit the YSU Commencement page.

“You have shown great perseverance in the face of tremendous challenges over the course of the past several months,” Tressel said in a message to all graduates. “Your determination is an inspiration to us all, and we are excited to be able to get together in-person to recognize your accomplishments.”