Penn State World Campus students who graduated in the Class of 2020 can now register for the University-wide celebration of that class that will be held in person at the University Park campus this spring.
The Penn State Class of 2020 Commencement Celebration will take place April 29 to May 1. It will feature commencement ceremonies, open houses on campus, photo shoots, the annual Movin' On Festival, and a tailgate.
Registration is being accepted through April 8. The weekend of celebration is open to graduates from the spring, summer, and fall 2020 semesters. Their parents, families, and friends are also invited to attend.
Here are some highlights that are planned for the weekend:
- The Movin' On Festival on Friday, April 29, from 3:30 to 10:30 p.m.
- On Saturday, April 30, there will be two undergraduate commencement ceremonies at the Bryce Jordan Center: from 9:00–10:30 a.m. and noon–1:30 p.m.
- Penn State World Campus will host an open house to celebrate its Class of 2020 graduates from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on April 30 at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park. Graduates and their guests will be served appetizers and refreshments, and there will be professional photos, family-friendly activities, and remarks from Renata Engel, the vice provost of Online Education at Penn State. World Campus is co-hosting the event with Penn State Commonwealth Campuses.
- The Graduate School ceremony will take place from 4:00 to 5:30 p.m. April 30.
While these celebrations won’t be traditional commencement ceremonies, they will include pomp, circumstance, presidential remarks, and recognition of the Class of 2020. Graduates in attendance will have their names announced while they cross the stage platform and may choose to wear regalia for their celebration, though it is not required.
“I’m thrilled to be welcoming the Penn State Class of 2020 and their parents, families, and friends to University Park for the in-person celebration of their academic achievements,” said Penn State President Eric J. Barron. “To the class of 2020 — I am so proud of all that you accomplished as students at Penn State and I cannot wait to see you here on campus to celebrate you, your Penn State academic accomplishments, and all that you have done now as Penn State alumni.”
At this time, in accordance with University measures, masks are required to be worn indoors by all individuals, regardless of vaccination status, in attendance at commencement ceremonies and other indoor activities in campus buildings.
Learn more about the Class of 2020 Commencement Celebration, including the full list of activities and registration information, on event's website.