Whitworth to Hold In-Person Commencement Ceremonies in May
The university plans to offer three in-person commencement ceremonies on campus in the Pine Bowl over Commencement Weekend:
• Saturday, May 22, 10 a.m.: Class of 2021 Graduate Ceremony
• Sunday, May 23, 11 a.m.: Class of 2021 Undergraduate Ceremony
• Sunday, May 23, 5 p.m.: Class of 2020 Combined Ceremony (Undergraduate and Graduate)
The ceremonies will be strictly limited in size, and circumstances may require changes to be made near the date of events. The ceremonies will be ticketed, with each graduate receiving a limited number of tickets (likely only two) to give to their chosen guests. Additional family members and friends will be able to watch a high-quality livestreaming of events from home.
The ceremonies will be held rain or shine but will be altered in the case of severe weather.
Whitworth has been working closely with the Spokane Regional Health District, which has tentatively approved the university’s preliminary plans. All state and local public health guidelines, including physical distancing and mask wearing, will be enforced at the ceremonies. This means seating for students and guests of different parties will be at least 6 feet apart. Stations for washing and sanitizing hands will be available.
If public health expectations change between now and Commencement Weekend, Whitworth may need to alter the size, number of allowed guests, and format of the ceremonies. This could mean graduates will gather in smaller groups instead of with their entire class. Graduates and families are also asked to please be mindful of protecting the Spokane community throughout Commencement Weekend by wearing masks as recommended and avoiding large, private gatherings.
For more information on Commencement Weekend and activities, please click here or email commencement@whitworth.edu.
About Whitworth University:
Located in Spokane, Wash., Whitworth is a private liberal arts university affiliated with the Presbyterian church. The university, which has an enrollment of more than 3,000 students, offers more than 100 undergraduate and graduate degree programs.
Contacts:
Trisha Coder, media relations manager, Whitworth University, (509) 777-4703 or tcoder@whitworth.edu
