University of Dayton announces plans for 6 in-person commencement ceremonies

DAYTON — The University of Dayton will hold six in-person graduation commencement ceremonies over three days for the Class of 2021 in May, according to a university spokesperson.

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UD is the latest area institution to announce in-person commencements, after the COVID-19 pandemic forced ceremonies to move to virtual gatherings last year.

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The ceremonies will take place May 7-9 at UD Arena and are designed in accordance with Ohio’s pandemic safety guidelines, the school spokesperson said. Graduates will be allowed four guests to attend their ceremony.

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“We know there is a strong desire for in-person celebration; and while this year’s exercises must be modified to allow for physical distancing and other safety measures to help protect everyone’s health, we hope you look forward to the chance to mark your academic achievements on campus, in person with your friends and family,” UD officials said in a message to students Thursday.

• May 7: Law graduates
• May 7: Master’s and doctoral graduates
• May 8: College of Arts and Sciences. There will be two ceremonies for this group
• May 8: ROTC Commissioning
• May 9: School of Education and Health Sciences and School of Engineering
• May 9: School of Business Administration

The university will announce the exact times of each ceremony in the coming days.

Assigned tickets will be allocated for the ceremony with live streams provided for those who cannot attend.

Cox Media Group