WSU Tri-Cities commencement for spring 2020 graduates postponed to spring 2021

RICHLAND, Wash. – In light of COVID-19 and limitations for public gatherings, Washington State University Tri-Cities has made the difficult decision to further postpone the spring 2020 commencement ceremony to spring 2021.

The commencement ceremony was initially rescheduled from May 9, 2020, to Aug. 15, 2020. As Benton and Franklin counties are still in Phase 1 of the governor’s “Safe Start” plan, large gatherings (more than 50) will likely not be possible in time for the previously rescheduled date.

The rescheduled ceremony for spring 2020 graduates will operate separately from the commencement ceremony for spring 2021 graduates. In other words, two ceremonies will be held – one for spring 2020 graduates and another for spring 2021 graduates. The time of both ceremonies is yet to be determined.

“As commencement is an important celebration for both students and their families and friends, we wanted to hold this special occasion for our graduates, even a year late,” WSU Tri-Cities Chancellor Sandra Haynes said in an email to spring 2020 graduates. “This is a day for you to celebrate the monumental accomplishment of earning your degree and a great next step in your personal and professional lives.”

More information will be shared throughout the year. For now, spring 2020 graduates should fill out the contact form with their updated email.

In the meantime, check out the virtual profiles of spring 2020 graduates and watch the virtual celebration for graduates:
View profiles of spring 2020 graduates
Watch the 2020 virtual celebration