BLOOMSBURG- Bloomsburg University sent out a mass email to the students on March 10th, announcing their plan for an in-person commencement at the end of this fall semester.

This email followed one that revealed an intent to commit to full in-person classes next semester. President Hanna stated in the email,

“Each ceremony will follow the appropriate COVID-19 safety guidelines from the CDC, the PA Department of Health, and Gov. Tom Wolf’s office. Anyone attending in-person ceremonies will be required to wear a face-covering throughout the event. With the proper health and safety protocols in place, including face coverings, physical distancing, and good hand hygiene, we are confident that in-person ceremonies will be possible.”

Nicola Scicchitano, a senior theatre major, when asked about graduation, said,

“I’m very happy [graduation] is going to be in person. It is a major life accomplishment, and I’m glad I’ll actually be able to celebrate it the semi-normal way with masks. I’ll also get to celebrate and see some of my closest friends one last time before we all go our own ways.”

Medical Imaging major Kaelyn Sessa-Sarver said,

“I’m so excited! I know that in-person graduation will help me feel more accomplished and like my last couple years spent working towards my degree will be rewarding and signify a true end to my time at Bloomsburg.”

Graduation is scheduled for May 14th through 16th at Redman Stadium and will be rain or shine since the event is outdoors. The event will also be live-streamed for extended family and friends who cannot attend in person. On the other side, the email warns that these plans are subject to change and are asking students, family, and friends to remain flexible in scheduling.