Le Moyne College postpones commencement ceremonies over coronavirus concerns

SYRACUSE, N.Y. — Le Moyne College has postponed its two 2020 commencement ceremonies, citing the “recommendations from multiple government and health agencies limiting the number of people at gatherings, along with the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 health emergency.”

The school had earlier shifted to online-only instruction following an extended spring break.

The graduation ceremonies would have taken place the weekend of May 15 through May 17. The  graduate-student ceremony was set for May 15 on the Le Moyne campus, and the undergraduate ceremony was slated for May 17 inside the Expo Center at the New York State Fairgrounds.

In addition to the ceremonies, the weekend also would’ve included other activities, including the honors convocation and baccalaureate mass for students and families.

The weekend also “traditionally” serves as the class reunion for members of the class celebrating its 50-year reunion, so this year would’ve been the Class of 1970, Le Moyne said. The school also cancelled the 2020 reunion weekend, which was set for May 29-31 on campus.

“This was a difficult decision, but one that is the right one in light of the extraordinary circumstances we are facing,” Le Moyne President Linda LeMura said in a statement.

“Although the details are uncertain at this time, we will celebrate commencement with the Class of 2020 on campus. As I told our seniors ‘While I can’t change what has happened, and I can’t take us back in time, I can promise you that I will find ways to celebrate the courage and passion of the Class of 2020. And while much of the planning is still taking place, I can promise you this much: you will have a commencement ceremony. You will walk across a stage, and I will hand you your diploma. You will be back on this campus and we will cheer your accomplishments.’”

As part of the planning process, Le Moyne says it will invite seniors and student leaders to make suggestions and provide feedback as the school works to make alternative plans.