Class of 2020 Celebrating YOU: In-Person Commencement Plans

Dear DU Class of 2020,

When we shared the difficult news last year that we would not be able to gather to celebrate your Commencement, we also let you know that we were committed to rescheduling this special occasion for you and your families in 2021. I am pleased to share with you that the University will host in-person Commencement ceremonies for the Class of 2020 on May 15 and 16. 

In planning for your rescheduled spring in-person ceremonies, we consulted with many people to ensure our plans meet safety protocols and guidelines. To capture the pride and joy we feel as a community—and especially to celebrate you, our graduates, in person—we made several alterations to craft a safe and enjoyable modified commencement experience for you and your guests. The plans described below were guided by state and local orders. Of course, the overall health and well-being of our community remains at the forefront of all conversations and decisions.

Rather than our usual, large commencement ceremonies, we will offer multiple smaller ceremonies to celebrate the Class of 2020. Hosting a series of smaller events will allow us to seat graduates, families and staff, and remain within the COVID-19 safety guidelines in Magness Arena.

Commencement ceremonies for the Class of 2020 will be held on: 

*Further details can be found through the registration links below and on the Commencement website.

Sturm College of Law students (both JD and master’s) will receive a separate communication directly from the college with information about Sturm’s Commencement schedule. 

If you wish to attend a commencement ceremony, you are required to register no later than Friday, April 23, at 5 p.m. MT. Please use the next few days to talk to your family and friends about which date and time will work best and then register using the appropriate link below.

If you register, you will automatically be allocated four tickets to distribute to your loved ones via email the week of Commencement. Unfortunately, additional tickets are not available in order to comply with our COVID-19 protocols. Live streaming with captioning will be available for family and friends who cannot attend in person. Tickets will be emailed to graduates the week of commencement. 

Face coverings will be required while on campus and inside Magness Arena. Additionally, graduates and guests will be asked to complete a visitor survey prior to arriving on campus.

You can order academic regalia via the bookstore. Plan to place your order as soon as possible. Regalia will be available for pick up at the DU Bookstore, beginning on May 3.

Celebrate Alumni Weekend with us! As our most recent class of alumni, you’ll also be able to enjoy our virtual and complimentary Alumni Weekend events which coincide with your Commencement. Register to reconnect with your classmates. 

Earning a degree is no small feat, and we are so glad that we can recognize and celebrate you and your achievements in person. My thanks to the faculty and staff who have worked so hard to create a safe way to celebrate this milestone for you and your loved ones.

Sincerely,

Jeremy Haefner
Chancellor