Tulane President Mike Fitts sent out an email to seniors this morning alerting them of changes to this year’s commencement ceremony due to the COVID-19 pandemic. A virtual ceremony will take place on the previously schedule commencement date, May 16, called “TUgether – Connecting the Class of 2020” and plans for an in-person commencement ceremony in New Orleans on a later date are underway. 

Fitts expressed sadness and empathy towards the Class of 2020 and said the university staff had explored every possible option to be able to hold commencement as previously scheduled in Yulman Stadium. 

“I write to tell you that while degrees will be granted on time, this year’s commencement ceremony must be postponed. But, rest assured, Tulane’s celebration of life, love and the tenacity of our graduates will ultimately be held where it belongs — in New Orleans,” Fitts said in the email.

Due to the uncertainty of the upcoming months due to coronavirus, Fitts and his staff said they are unable to present a planned date for the in-person ceremony, but as the crisis begins to pass, more details regarding a traditional commencement ceremony will be released. 

“Now, more than ever, is the time to strengthen the bonds of family and friendship cultivated by your time at Tulane University,” Fitts said. “We will connect enough of this year’s graduates, and share enough unbridled joy, that the class of 2020 will be heard around the world.”