The foundational priority of each university is the health and well-being of our university students, faculty and staff.  On March 17 and subsequently on June 4, we directed the state universities to develop an alternate schedule or method of delivery for spring and summer commencement. Based on that direction, some universities moved their traditional commencement dates to later in the year, while others scheduled virtual celebrations. 

Recognizing that health guidelines still limit gatherings at this time, it is prudent for universities to develop alternate plans for fall commencement ceremonies, which include any rescheduled spring or summer commencement plans that may have been changed to the fall. 

While we understand the disappointment this may cause, universities were creative in their spring and summer commencement festivities, and each of them found ways to celebrate their graduates and their achievements.  We are confident that the fall graduates will be equally celebrated. 

The State University System of Florida will continue to monitor guidelines issued by the Center for Disease Control and will provide expanded guidance should it be deemed necessary. 

Updated university information about COVID-19 is available on the Board of Governors website at https://www.flbog.edu/2020/03/26/university-information-on-covid-19-2/.