Since we cannot bring our community together in person to celebrate Commencement 2020, we will be offering an online experience for our graduating seniors, their family and friends, and the greater Macalester community.
On Saturday, May 16 at 1:30 p.m., our recorded Commencement ceremony will include:
- Remarks from President Rosenberg, Commencement speaker Marlon James, and graduating student speakers;
- Formal presentation of candidates and degrees with the reading of names (in alphabetical order)—this will include senior cards with a photo and quote from the graduate;
- Bagpipe performance;
- Peace Prayer reading; and
- A special, surprise musical performance.
The online platform where we air the ceremony will allow for the live engagement of our community. For those in time zones that might be unable to join live, we will post the ceremony online for later viewing. You may register here for Commencement via Zoom. 2020 Commencement Program (PDF).
Graduates will receive a Commencement box with a mortarboard and tassel, honor cords, and other items in recognition of their accomplishments. After Commencement, diplomas will be sent along with a commemorative program. Plans are also in the works for Senior Week and other Commencement week ceremonies including Lavender Graduation, Rites of Passage, Honoring the Journey and Baccalaureate.
When it is safe to do so, the Commencement Committee will discuss the best way to plan an in person celebration for the class of 2020. We recognize that not all will be able to return to campus. With that in mind, we aim to make the online celebration May 16 the very best it can be, so that all graduates are honored and celebrated for their accomplishments.