A few weeks ago, after the disappointing announcement that in-person graduation ceremonies could not proceed in May as originally planned, we launched a survey to understand the desires and preferences of NYU Steinhardt’s graduating students. We write today to share what we heard and how students’ input informed our plans to celebrate the Class of 2020.
Thank you to the 1,800+ students who quickly and candidly shared their feedback to help us design a complementary set of events that will honor their work, dedication, and achievements.
The first takeaway was clear: nearly all graduating students want traditional, in-person ceremonies – baccalaureate, valedictory, and doctoral – complete with caps, gowns, and names read as students walk across the stage. With this, NYU Steinhardt is formally postponing our in-person graduation ceremonies timed, as much as possible, in tandem with the postponed, University-wide commencement. We wholeheartedly agree the Class of 2020 deserves to be honored with this in-person experience that simply cannot be replicated virtually. We will also provide remote participation options so those who cannot be physically present can still be a part of each ceremony.
Second, graduating students welcome a separate, remote celebration this May with a less-traditional, but still festive and communal, style. NYU Steinhardt will broadcast a celebration for all graduating students on Tuesday, May 19 (invitation with details to follow). We understand that nothing remote will replace the experience of an in-person ceremony. Even so, it offers a chance to come together this Spring and jointly applaud the accomplishments of the Class of 2020 with faculty, family, and friends. These unprecedented times should not be a barrier to extending our utmost admiration and recognition to our graduating students in May.
We also heard that festivities within academic departments are important to graduating students. We’re working with departments to support these events; department leaders will be in touch with details.
Thank you again for the invaluable input to guide our reimagined, complementary School events. I can’t wait to begin to cheer for the Class of 2020 on Tuesday, May 19.
Pamela
(pronouns: she/her/hers)
Professor of Applied Psychology
Interim Dean
NYU Steinhardt