Ashland University’s Spring 2021 Commencement will be held May 8, in the Dwight Schar Athletic Complex’s Miller Stadium. Students who graduated in the spring, summer and fall of 2020 are invited to attend and participate in the ceremony.

AU’s Spring 2021 Commencement will be the first ceremony since winter 2019. Due to the Covid-19 outbreak, AU postponed graduation for spring 2020, summer and fall of 2020.

Graduates from 2020 were honored on social media and had their respective virtual graduations. However, it was clear that students were willing to wait to have an in-person commencement.

“They wanted to wait, even if it took as long as it’s taken, to prepare for something that would really honor them in a way that they could participate,” President Campo said.

This commencement will look much different than past graduations. The AU website states that all attendees and graduates are required to wear face masks and follow the social distancing guidelines set by the state of Ohio. 

“Face masks must be worn at all times. There will be no handshaking during the conferring of degrees,” AU’s website said.

In addition, tickets have been limited to only two per graduate and there will not be extra ticket sales on the day of the event.

Mark Britton, AU registrar, noted that the event will be livestreamed for those family members who will not be able to attend.

“I know that having only two tickets is tough for some students, but we will be live streaming the ceremony so student’s families can watch at home, in the hotel room or even across the country,” Britton said. 

Spring 2021 Commencement will take place, rain or shine, due to the lack of an indoor space that can accommodate Ohio’s social distancing and mass gathering protocols.

“Graduates will be permitted to have an umbrella in the event that it rains,” Britton said. “I would also suggest getting a clear poncho to cover your gown to keep at least a little bit dry.”

Tickets are available for in-person pick-up at the Registrar’s Office located on the second floor of Founders Hall. Students who are unable to come to campus to pick up tickets should email [email protected] by April 23 to arrange for tickets to be mailed. There will also be a “will call” at ticket booths at the entrance to the stadium beginning 90 minutes prior to the event.For more information regarding Spring 2021 Commencement, visit AU’s website or call the Registrar’s Office at 419-289-5666.