Utica College to hold in-person graduation for Class of 2021 but without guests

UTICA, N.Y. — Utica College will hold commencement ceremonies for Class of 2021 on May 15 at the Adirondack Bank Center at the Utica Memorial Auditorium.

Utica College is not permitting guests to attend “due to capacity issues.” Instead, the ceremonies will be livestreamed and recorded for all family and friends to view from personal devices during the ceremony, as well as for future viewing.

The in-person undergraduate commencement will happen in three different ceremonies throughout the day “in accordance with COVID-19 regulations, and capacity limitations for indoor venues,” Utica College noted.

The ceremonies are set for 9 a.m. for the School of Arts and Sciences, 1 p.m. for the School of Business and Justice Studies, and 5 p.m. for the School of Health Professions and Education.

All ceremonies will be limited to 400 attendees who must show proof of full vaccination or the results of a negative COVID test within the last 48 hours. Graduates, faculty, and staff must also wear proper face coverings, have their temperature checked upon entering the facility, and keep socially distant.

Everyone attending must have a reservation and will be required to show ID — either a Utica College ID or driver’s license — upon entering.

Utica College will hold a separate, virtual ceremony for graduate students on Saturday, June 12 at 10 a.m.